Metabolism

Definition

Metabolism is the process by which your body converts what you eat and drink into energy.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Metabolism encompasses all biochemical reactions in living organisms that are necessary to maintain life, including catabolic reactions that break down molecules to obtain energy and anabolic reactions that synthesize compounds used by cells.

Benefits

• Regulates body weight by balancing energy intake and expenditure.
• Supports body functions such as breathing, circulation, and cell repair.
• Influences overall energy levels and physical performance.

Examples

Additional Information

• Importance: Metabolism is crucial for sustaining life, supporting growth and cellular processes, and enabling responsiveness to environmental changes.

Related Terms

• Basal Metabolic Rate
• Calorie
• Catabolism
• Anabolism
• Thermogenesis

References

• Understanding Metabolism: Harvard Health
• Metabolism Overview: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases