Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

Definition

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the amount of energy your body needs to maintain basic physiological functions, like breathing and digestion, while at rest.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) refers to the rate at which the body expends energy to maintain vital functions while at complete physical and mental rest in a neutrally temperate environment, in post-absorptive state, meaning that the digestive system is inactive, which requires about twelve hours of fasting in humans.

Benefits

• Helps in determining daily calorie needs for weight management.
• Assists in creating personalized diet and exercise plans.
• Enables understanding of metabolism.

Examples

Additional Information

• Importance: Understanding your BMR is important for calculating total calorie requirements and designing an effective weight management plan.

Related Terms

• Caloric Intake
• Metabolism
• Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR)
• Thermic Effect of Food (TEF)
• Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE)

References

• Basal Metabolic Rate: Standards and Clinical Guidance
• The Compendium of Physical Activities and the MET concept