Why may the energy requirement of a patient on bed rest be lower than that of a normally active person?

Correct answer: Because the activity level is lower

Physical activity is an important part of total energy expenditure. A patient confined to bed generally uses fewer calories for movement than an active person, so the calculated requirement may be lower. However, fever, infection, wounds, inflammation, rehabilitation, and the need to preserve muscle can raise needs; the plan must therefore be individualized.