METABOLISM

Metabolic rate is a measure of the amount of energy (in the form of calories) that your body uses to perform essential functions such as breathing, circulating blood, and maintaining body temperature. Your metabolic rate is influenced by factors such as your age, sex, weight, and height, as well as your activity level and diet.

Metabolism can be thought of as the "engine" that powers your body. Just like an engine converts fuel (such as gasoline) into energy to power a car, your body converts the food you eat and the beverages you drink into energy through the process of metabolism.

Your metabolism is responsible for converting the nutrients in the food you eat into energy that your body can use to function. It also helps your body break down and eliminate waste products.

Just like an engine needs a certain amount of fuel to run properly, your body needs a certain amount of calories to maintain optimal functioning. If you consume too few calories, your body may not have enough energy to perform essential functions, leading to fatigue and other health problems. On the other hand, if you consume too many calories, your body may store the excess energy as fat, leading to weight gain.

Overall, your metabolism plays a crucial role in maintaining your overall health and well-being.

There are several ways to measure metabolic rate, including direct and indirect calorimetry. Direct calorimetry involves measuring the heat produced by the body, while indirect calorimetry involves measuring the amount of oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide produced by the body. But the easiest way is to track your normal calories and track your weight for a minimum of 7 consecutive days. 

If during this time your weight goes up (increases) then most likely you are eating at a surplus. On the other hand, if your weight drops you are eating at a deficit. Lastly, if your weight does not change during this period, this is your maintenance, your current metabolic balance. 

Your basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the amount of energy your body uses to perform basic functions while at rest. This is the minimum number of calories your body needs to function, and it accounts for about 60-75% of the total calories you burn each day.

Your total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) is the total number of calories your body burns in a day, including your BMR and the calories you burn through physical activity. Your TDEE is influenced by your activity level and can vary from day to day.

The most common "problem" encountered is a "damaged" metabolism, This term is used, but keep in mind that it is not damaged. Your metabolism is doing exactly what it was "trained" to do. 

There are a number of factors that can contribute to a damaged metabolism, including poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and certain medical conditions.

Here are a few examples of how someone might damage their metabolism:

• Poor nutrition: Consuming a diet that is high in processed foods and low in nutrients can lead to a damaged metabolism. This is because processed foods are often high in added sugars and unhealthy fats, which can disrupt the body's metabolism and contribute to weight gain.

• Lack of physical activity: Engaging in regular physical activity can help boost your metabolism, but a lack of physical activity can have the opposite effect. Sedentary behavior can lead to a decrease in muscle mass, which can slow down your metabolism.

• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland) and Cushing's syndrome (a hormonal disorder), can cause a damaged metabolism.

• The feeling that weights seem to stick to your body (typically on areas that are hard to "reduce") when you slightly overeat.

It's important to note that these are just a few examples, and there are many other factors that can contribute to a damaged metabolism. Consult a Nutrition Coach for a proper diagnosis and treatment.