What is the MedGem®?
The MedGem® is an indirect calorimeter/FDA-cleared device that scientifically measures resting metabolic rate (RMR), or the number of calories a person burns at rest each day. The MedGem is validated in clinical research and measures RMR by measuring oxygen consumption and resting VO2 and gives results as your “resting metabolic rate” in calories per day, which is factored in with occupational and planned physical activity, sleep habits, and weight goals to help pinpoint a specific calorie level for you to meet your weight
and fitness goals.
Why do a MedGem® testing?
Achieving your ideal weight or fitness goals begins with finding the right balance of exercise and caloric intake, but each person’s balance is unique. The cutting edge technology of the MedGem® enables your FuelCoach RD to establish an accurate
calorie budget specifically for YOU so you can successfully achieve your goals.
Metabolism can vary significantly from person to person and whether an individual’s goals are weight loss, improved fitness, or even weight gain or maintenance, an accurate metabolism reading is the key to success. Metabolism is influenced by many factors, therefore you should measure your metabolism regularly during a weight management or fitness program. Metabolism can vary from day to day and within the same day. That’s why it’s important to measure RMR under similar conditions at the same time of the day, in the same position, and fully relaxed. If normal conditions for you include taking nutritional supplements, caffeine, nicotine, or medications, then it is important to acknowledge this as part of your daily routine.
What does the MedGem measure?
MedGem measures individual oxygen consumption to determine a Metabolic Fingerprint™, or Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR), which accounts for the vast majority of the calories your body burns naturally each day (about 60-75%); the remainder is burned during daily activity and purposeful exercise. The device measures the amount of oxygen your body is using, and since your body uses oxygen only to convert food into energy (to burn calories), the two are directly related.
How long will the MedGem® testing take?
The breath test alone takes about 5-10 minutes and you must breathe into a disposable mouthpiece attached to the device for 5-10 minutes, in addition to having a disposable
noseclip on your nose so the device is able to obtain a steady state flow of oxygen.
How do I need to prepare for the MedGem® testing?
Ideally RMR is measured 8-12 hours after eating or exercise (in the morning). If a client has been active or stressed, or has recently eaten or exercised, the rate of oxygen consumption that the MedGem measures will be accurate for that condition but may not be representative of actual “resting metabolic rate.” We want to mimic resting conditions as much as possible.
If this is not possible, the following conditions should be met, in addition to sitting quietly and relaxing for 10-15 minutes prior to the test:
- Avoid eating or drinking beverages that contain calories or
caffeine 4 hours prior to the test - Avoid any type of exercise 4 hours prior to the test
- Avoid nicotine consumption 2-4 hours prior to the test
- Avoid taking nutritional supplements and medication that contains
ephedra, Ma Huang, or pseudoephedrine (or any other stimulant) for at least 2
hours prior to the test
Do I need to fill out any paperwork prior to the MedGem® testing?
Prior to your initial meeting, please fill out the FuelCoach Client History Questionnaire and submit that prior to your appointment. Please complete this assessment form to the best of your ability. This is important to prepare for your visit. At your initial visit, the dietitian will review the FuelCoach Client History Questionnaire with you. The goal of gathering this information is assessment; it allows your FuelCoach an opportunity to gather information on your dietary habits/history, exercise habits, goals and possible limitations to eating healthy.
