Basal Metabolic Rate

Definition

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

Scientific / Technical Definition

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) refers to the minimal rate of energy expenditure per unit time by endothermic animals at rest. It is the amount of energy expressed in calories that a person needs to keep the body functioning at rest. These basal functions include the maintenance of the heart, lungs, kidneys, nervous system, intestines, liver, lungs, sex organs, muscles, and skin.

Benefits

• Helps understand personal energy needs
• Assists in designing effective weight loss or maintenance plans
• Provides insight into metabolic health

Examples

• Energy needed to sustain a resting state
• Not derived from any food source, but rather represents the energy required for basic organ function

Additional Information

• Importance: Understanding BMR helps determine daily caloric needs which can be adjusted for weight management strategies.

Related Terms

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

References

• Understanding Basal Metabolic Rate: Implications for Health
• Basal Metabolism References for Nutritional Assessments