Understanding Calorie Needs During Cancer Treatment
What are the calorie needs of an Olympic cross country skier diagnosed with breast cancer during treatment?
What factors determine calorie requirements for cancer patients?
Answer:
Kikkan's calorie needs during treatment cannot be determined accurately without knowing her age and exact BMR. However, it is important for cancer patients to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized calorie recommendations during treatment.
During cancer treatment, it is crucial for patients to maintain adequate calorie intake to support their body's needs. The calorie needs of an individual can vary depending on factors such as age, weight, activity level, and the stage of cancer.
In the case of Kikkan, who weighs 145 pounds, her calorie needs during treatment can be estimated using a formula. One commonly used formula is the Harris-Benedict equation, which calculates the Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) - the number of calories needed to maintain basic bodily functions at rest.
For women, the formula is:
BMR = 655 + (4.35 x weight in pounds) + (4.7 x height in inches) - (4.7 x age in years)
However, since Kikkan is an Olympic cross country skier and her energy needs may be higher due to her activity level, we can use a modified equation that takes into account her activity level:
Total Calorie Needs = BMR x Activity Factor
For athletes or individuals with high activity levels, the activity factor is typically between 1.5 and 2.5. Let's assume Kikkan's activity factor is 2.0.
First, let's convert Kikkan's weight from pounds to kilograms:
145 pounds = 65.9 kilograms (rounded to one decimal place)
Next, we can calculate her BMR:
BMR = 655 + (4.35 x 65.9) - (4.7 x age in years)
Since Kikkan's age is not provided in the question, we cannot calculate the exact BMR. However, we can estimate it based on the given information.
Finally, we can calculate her total calorie needs during treatment:
Total Calorie Needs = BMR x Activity Factor
Based on the options provided, we can compare the calculated calorie needs to the given choices and select the closest value.
It is important for cancer patients to receive individualized nutrition guidance to meet their specific needs during treatment. Consulting with healthcare professionals is essential for optimal care and support.