Healthy adults, ages 19+ require 0.8 grams protein per kg body weight/day. Many medical conditions can alter the needs for nutrients, such as protein, in the diet. These calculations are left to the RDN/NDTR.
Weight in pounds (lbs.) ÷ 2.2 lbs./kg = weight in kg Weight in kg x 0.8 grams protein/kg = Grams of protein/day
EXAMPLE
Ms. K is a healthy adult who weighs 140 pounds. What are her protein requirements? 140 lbs. ÷ 2.2 lbs./kg = 63.6 kg 63.6 kg x 0.8 grams protein/kg = 51 grams of protein/day
FLUID INTAKE FORMULA
1 cup fluid = 8 ounces = 240 mL or cc mL fluid ÷ 240 mL/cup = cups fluid Cups fluid x 240 mL/cup = mL fluid
EXAMPLE
A patient on a restricted fluid diet is allowed 800 mL/day of fluids from meals and snacks. How many cups of fluid is 800 mL? 800 mL ÷ 240 mL/cup = 3.3 cups fluid
IDEAL BODY WEIGHT (IBW) FORMULA
For women, IBW = 100 lbs. for the first 5 feet in height + 5 lbs. for each inch over 5 feet. For men, IBW = 106 lbs. for the first 5 feet in height + 6 lbs. for each inch over 5 feet. For heights less than 5 feet, subtract 5 lbs. for each inch below 5 feet.
Frame adjustments (Men and Women) Small Frame: Subtract 10% from the total weight Medium Frame: No change Large Frame: Add 10% to the total weight
EXAMPLE
1. Mr. W is 6’1” tall and has a large frame. What is his ideal body weight? 106 lbs. + (13 inches over 5’ x 6 lbs. per inch) = 106 + 78 = 184 lbs. For large frame, add 10%: 184 x 1.10 = 202 lbs.
2. Ms. T is 4’11” tall and has a medium frame. What is her ideal body weight? 100 lbs. – 5 lbs. = 95 lbs.
Nutrition Fundamentals and Medical Nutrition Therapy