Metabolic Rate

Definition

Metabolic rate is the speed at which your body burns calories to produce energy for basic life functions like breathing, circulation, and cell production.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Metabolic rate refers to the rate at which the body expends energy or burns calories in the process of maintaining basic life-sustaining functions, such as basal metabolic rate (BMR) and resting metabolic rate (RMR). It is a measure of the energy used by the body over a specific time period.

Benefits

• Helps in weight management by regulating calorie burning.
• Affects energy levels and physical performance.
• Supports overall metabolic health and efficiency.

Examples

• Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) calculators used to estimate daily calorie needs.
• Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) analyses often offered in health clinics.

Additional Information

• Effects: Metabolic rate influences weight control, muscle maintenance, and hormonal balance.

Related Terms

• Basal Metabolic Rate
• Resting Metabolic Rate
• Caloric Deficit
• Energy Expenditure

References

• Understanding Energy Expenditure and Metabolic Rate
• How Metabolism Affects Your Body's Energy Levels