# Development of a calorie-based weight prediction equation for Anorexia nervosa: a case report

## TL;DR

A calorie-based model helps predict weight gain in anorexia patients, aiding treatment decisions and consensus among patients, families, and clinicians.

## Contribution

A simplified calorie-based weight prediction model for anorexia nervosa based on the revised Harris–Benedict equation is proposed and clinically applied.

## Key findings

- The model facilitated consensus on treatment strategies involving nasogastric feeding and therapy.
- The approach shows potential as a dynamic and noninvasive tool for managing anorexia inpatients.
- Further research is needed to evaluate the model's accuracy and clinical impact in larger groups.

## Abstract

Anorexia nervosa (AN) often requires nutritional rehabilitation including nasogastric feeding. However, achieving shared treatment goals between clinicians, patients, and families can be challenging. Weight prediction can be a valuable tool in this process; however, conventional approaches rely largely on clinical experience and lack precision. We therefore developed a simplified calorie-based weight prediction model grounded in the revised Harris–Benedict equation.

This case report describes the clinical application of this model in a woman in her twenties with AN. By visualizing predicted weight trajectories under different caloric intake strategies, the model facilitated consensus building between the patient, her family, and the treatment team, leading to the acceptance of nasogastric feeding and structured behavioral therapy.

The present case may suggest the potential utility of a calorie-based weight prediction model as a dynamic, noninvasive, and quantitative tool for inpatient management of AN. While the approach could facilitate understanding and agreement regarding treatment for AN, further evaluation in larger cohorts is required to assess accuracy and clinical impact.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40337-025-01520-7.