Basal Metabolic Rate

Definition

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body needs to maintain basic physiological functions like breathing and circulation while at rest.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Basal Metabolic Rate is the rate at which the body expends energy at rest in order to maintain life-sustaining functions such as heart rate, circulation, and neuro-function. It is primarily determined by body composition, age, gender, and genetics.

Benefits

• Helps determine daily calorie needs.
• Assists in creating effective weight management plans.
• Aids in understanding metabolism and its effects on weight management.

Examples

• A person's BMR can be calculated using specific formulas such as the Harris-Benedict equation.
• Resting energy expenditure measured in clinical settings.

Additional Information

• Importance: Understanding BMR is crucial for managing weight and creating effective nutrition and exercise plans.

Related Terms

• Metabolism
• Caloric Intake
• Resting Metabolic Rate
• Energy Expenditure

References

• Understanding Basal Metabolic Rate: Clinical Implications
• The Role of Basal Metabolic Rate in Determining Caloric Needs