Here is a step-by-step estimate of the amount of glucose an average male consumes in an hour:
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Estimate the person’s basal metabolic rate (BMR). This is the minimum number of calories needed to sustain vital bodily functions at rest. For a male of average height and weight, the BMR is approximately 1,800 calories per day.
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Divide the BMR by 24 hours to get the hourly energy expenditure. 1,800 / 24 = 75 calories per hour.
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Glucose provides about 4 calories per gram. So if all calories came from glucose, the person would use about 18 grams per hour (75 calories / 4 cal/g = 18 g).
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However, the body uses a mix of nutrients for energy, not just glucose. Glucose may provide around 50% of resting metabolic calories.
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Therefore, if 50% of the 75 calories per hour are from glucose, that equals 37.5 calories from glucose per hour.
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With 4 calories per gram of glucose, 37.5 calories equals about 9 grams of glucose consumed per hour (37.5 cal / 4 cal/g = 9 g).
In summary, a rough estimate is that an average male at rest consumes approximately 9 grams of glucose per hour to meet 50% of basal metabolic energy requirements. This will vary based on the individual’s exact weight, body composition, and metabolic rate.