Basal metabolism meaning

Basal metabolism is the minimum amount of energy required to maintain essential bodily functions while at rest.


Basal metabolism definitions

Word backwards lasab msilobatem
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "basal metabolism" is a noun phrase.
Syllabic division ba - sal me - ta - bol - ism
Plural The plural of the word basal metabolism is basa metabolisms.
Total letters 15
Vogais (4) a,e,o,i
Consonants (5) b,s,l,m,t

Basal metabolism, also known as resting metabolism or basal metabolic rate (BMR), refers to the number of calories your body needs to perform basic functions such as breathing, circulating blood, and cell production while at rest. It represents the minimum amount of energy required to sustain life.

Basal metabolism is influenced by various factors including age, gender, weight, height, muscle mass, and genetics. Generally, men tend to have a higher BMR than women due to having more muscle mass. Additionally, BMR tends to decrease with age as muscle mass decreases and body fat increases.

How is Basal Metabolism Measured?

Basal metabolism is typically measured through indirect calorimetry, which involves analyzing the amount of oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide produced by the body. This helps determine the rate at which energy is being expended at rest. Other methods include equations that estimate BMR based on factors like weight and height.

Factors Affecting Basal Metabolism

Various factors can influence an individual's basal metabolism. For example, thyroid function plays a significant role in regulating metabolism. An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can increase BMR, while an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can decrease it.

Other factors such as body composition, diet, physical activity level, and hormonal imbalances can also impact basal metabolism. Building muscle through strength training can help increase BMR as muscle tissue burns more calories at rest compared to fat tissue.

Importance of Basal Metabolism

Understanding basal metabolism is crucial for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. By knowing your BMR, you can better tailor your diet and exercise regimen. Consuming fewer calories than your BMR can help you lose weight, while consuming more can lead to weight gain.

Overall, basal metabolism forms the foundation of your daily energy expenditure. By paying attention to your BMR and making adjustments to your lifestyle accordingly, you can optimize your overall health and well-being.


Basal metabolism Examples

  1. Understanding your basal metabolism can help you determine your daily calorie needs.
  2. Factors such as age, gender, and muscle mass can affect your basal metabolism.
  3. Having a higher basal metabolism can make it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
  4. Reducing stress levels can help improve your basal metabolism.
  5. Regular exercise is known to increase basal metabolism.
  6. Low thyroid levels can lead to a decrease in basal metabolism.
  7. Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day can help boost your basal metabolism.
  8. Staying hydrated is important for maintaining a healthy basal metabolism.
  9. Lack of sleep can negatively impact your basal metabolism.
  10. Consulting with a nutritionist can help you better understand your basal metabolism.


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  • Updated 06/04/2024 - 02:43:28