Differences in resting energy expenditure and body composition between patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls

Objective: A lowered energy metabolism in schizophrenia was reported already in the 1920s. However, these early investigations were case studies without control groups or statistical analysis. In this study the resting energy expenditure (REE) and relevant body composition variables were measured in patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls. Method: REE was determined in 30 patients and 17 controls. The difference between the measured and the expected level for each individual was calculated as Delta REE. Body composition was assessed with bioelectrical impedance and calliper measurements. Results: Delta REE was significantly lower in the patients than in the controls. A decrease was also seen in the non-medicated patients. The patients showed significantly lower percentages of water in fat free-mass and intracellular water. Conclusion: The lowering of REE and body water fractions may suggest a homeostatic aberration in schizophrenia that may be of importance for the understanding of metabolic disturbances observed in the disease.