Resting metabolic rate
CORTEX
RMR was measured in fasting, always at the same time of day (morning), between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Prior to the first RMR measurement, participants were instructed on how to prepare for the measurement, i.e. avoid exercise for 3 days before the scheduled measurement, be properly hydrated, and not use any stimulants before the study (nicotine, caffeine). Participants were also recommended not to change their diet or physical activity during the intervention. RMR was measured in the supine position in an air-conditioned laboratory, at a constant temperature of 21 °C, after a prior rest of about 15 min in the supine position. Resting metabolic rate, was measured by indirect calorimetry using a Cortex MetaLyzer 3R ergospirometer (Germany), using the breath by breath method. The ergospirometer was calibrated each time according to the manufacturer’s requirements (gas and volume calibration). Oxygen uptake (VO