ABSTRACT
The Neanderthals had an average body mass above that of modern humans, a more sturdy bone structure and a lower height. Food was primarily obtained by hunting big game. This chapter aims to explore the energy requirements of Neanderthals during the warm interglacial Eem period, and based on analysis to discuss the need for clothes and footwear, as well as methods for food conservation and preparation. The analysis of energy production and use presented below is divided into two parts: first the energy balance is evaluated during sleep, and then the various components of energy production and use during activities taking up the wake time of Eem Neanderthals. Energy use will go up during the colder periods following the Eem, but more slowly if thermoregulation is assumed to be dealt with through clothes, rather than if it had to involve elevated levels of muscle work.
