The above table, calculated for an average man weighing 154 pounds, may seem less simple to use than one based on the energy requirements per pound of body weight per hour, of an average individual. For example, a man weighing 123 pounds and performing practically the same amount and type of work as done by the man weighing 154 pounds would require practically one-fifth less calories than the latter individual. Hence, to facilitate the estimation of the food requirements for average individuals, the following table is included.[22]

Sleeping0.42 calorie per hour, per lb. of body wt.
Sitting at rest0.65 calorie per hour, per lb. of body wt.
Light muscular exercise1.10 calories per hour, per lb. of body wt.
Active muscular exercise1.90 calories per hour, per lb. of body wt.
Severe muscular exercise3.00 calories per hour, per lb. of body wt.

Possibly a few explanatory words, as to the terms used in the above tables, will assist the nurse in making the necessary calculation. “Sleeping quietly” makes allowance for no movement save that of respiration; any undue restlessness will call for an increase in the above allowance.

“Sitting at rest” includes the time spent at meals, sitting in class room, ward office, studying or reading. It does not include much walking about the room, rising frequently, or nervous restlessness.

“Light exercise” includes all light house work, running an ordinary sewing machine, walking about office or ward, (receiving ward included). It does not include washing, sweeping or scrubbing.

“Active exercise” includes washing, sweeping, scrubbing, general house work, carpentry, and such sports as tennis, basket ball, and ordinary gymnasium work.

“Severe exercise” includes road workers (working with pick and shovel) fast running, baseball, football, and swimming.

“Very severe exercise” includes the work done by miners, handling of freight, and lumbermen, especially those working in extreme cold, where the severe cold makes extra demands on the fuel supply. By making use of the averages just mentioned it should be a simple matter to calculate the food requirements of any normal individual. It is necessary to know the weight of the person in question, and the manner in which the twenty-four hours are spent, and, in the case of elderly individuals, make the reductions believed to be necessary for health.

Method of Using the Tables.—Let us take a nurse in training for this purpose. Suppose the nurse weighs 110 pounds, and spends the twenty-four hours as follows,

Sleeping8 hours
Sitting at meals2 hours
Studying2 hours
In class1 hour
On duty9 hours
Off duty (walking briskly)2 hours