Tag: Preventing muscle loss

While standard recommendations exist, a bedridden individual's calorie requirements can vary dramatically based on underlying medical conditions, age, and nutritional status. A balanced approach is crucial to prevent both weight gain from overfeeding and muscle loss from underfeeding, a common risk during extended periods of inactivity.

Even for otherwise healthy individuals, as little as a few days of bed rest can lead to a significant decline in muscle mass and metabolic health. To ensure proper healing and prevent unwanted weight gain, it is crucial to understand and adjust your nutritional needs, especially regarding the question of how many calories should I eat if I'm on bed rest. This article delves into the science behind calorie requirements during periods of inactivity and provides practical advice for managing your diet during recovery.

According to a study in *The Journals of Gerontology*, the caloric requirements for immobile elderly patients can be significantly lower than active individuals. An accurate answer to "how many calories do you need if you are bedridden?" depends on the patient's specific health condition and weight, but maintaining an optimal intake is crucial for preventing complications like pressure ulcers and muscle atrophy.