What Is Basal Metabolism

Diets concentrate on foods that should and should not be eaten. Exercise programs tell us which exercises will best help in toning muscles and losing excess fat. Ideal health can be more easily attained when diet and exercise are used in conjunction. Many programs ignore basal metabolic rate

The basal metabolic rate is defined as the rate in which the body uses energy to support basic life functions. This includes maintaining internal body temperature, repairing cells, building muscle, absorbing food, etc. This omission in no way lessens the importance of diet or exercise. Indeed, this information corroborates the theory of diet and exercise as partners, which work together to help the dieter to achieve optimum health.

The average for basal metabolic rate is 70 calories per hour, however the rate varies from person to person. When a person rises from sleep, the metabolic rate rises, then falls when a person returns to sleep. The amount of energy used during the day and the types of food eaten, among other factors, can affect the basal metabolic rate. A key point to keep in mind is that once the basal metabolic rate attains a level, it does not decrease until the body sleeps again.

Particular medications, chiefly anti-depressants, can modify the basal metabolic rate. This can lead to weight gain. This reason and several others tell the dieter to seek advice from their physician before starting any diet and/or exercise program.

Injury can alter the basal metabolic rate as the body heals itself. Injuring oneself is counter-indicated; however, this is an area to watch in the case one does experience injury during the course of any weight loss program.

Intestinal activity is decreased by refined sugar and high fat foods. The body uses sugars for energy before all other sources, providing another obstacle if sugary foods are not reduced from the diet. Intestinal decline can be prevented by the ingestion of fiber. 30 grams of fiber per day is the recommended allowance. This could be slightly higher for larger individuals. The proper balance of vitamins and minerals helps to regulate the basal metabolic rate.

Basal metabolic rate is decided primarily by genetics, although diet and exercise can help influence it. Certain physiological issues can affect it as well. Knowledge of the basal metabolic rate can assist in the effort to remove excess body fat and maintain a healthy body image.

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