Metabolic Cart

The Metabolic Cart measures resting metabolic rate

The metabolic cart analyzes the oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide you produce while wearing a plastic, ventilated hood for a short period of time. You’ll be lying down and relaxed throughout the test.

How accurate is the Metabolic Cart?

The gold standard for testing resting metabolic rate is the is the whole body calorimetry unit. The metabolic cart is a little less accurate (can underestimate by about 10%). That being said, it is still much more accurate than a personal activity tracker.

What can I do with the results?

Highly trained nutrition researchers will review your results with you. Calorie requirements are only one piece of the puzzle. Consulting a registered dietitian for help with losing or gaining weight is recommended. HNRU staff can provide options to help you find a registered dietitian to assist you with lifestyle changes, if you don’t have one already.

How is this test different than a calorie calculator or activity tracker?

Typically resting metabolic rates are based on average values for different groups of people, when we know your body is unique. Your resting metabolic rate may differ depending on your genes, how much muscle you have, your health conditions, and long-term eating and exercise patterns. Know the real stats for your body.