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rom digestion to brain function, how does BMR keep your life moving
Basal metabolic rate (BMR) refers to the energy consumption rate per unit time of homeothermic animals in a resting state. This important physiological indicator plays a core role in various functions of the body. Whether it is maintaining breathing or ensuring normal blood circulation, BMR plays a basic but vital role.
Basal metabolic rate accounts for about 70% of an individual's total daily energy expenditure, so it is of significant importance in controlling weight and health.
BMR is affected by many factors, including age, gender, weight and muscle mass. As people age, their basal metabolic rate typically decreases, in part due to a loss of muscle mass. Increasing muscle mass will push up your BMR, leading to more calorie burning.
Age has a significant effect on BMR. After age 20, BMR decreases by 1% to 2% every decade. In addition, gender is also a key factor. Men generally have a higher basal metabolic rate than women, which is mainly attributed to the fact that men generally have more muscle mass than women.
As scientists' research shows, changes in basal metabolic rate can be obtained through investigations of physiological characteristics, and an individual's muscle mass is directly related to the basal metabolic rate.
BMR measurement requires extremely strict conditions and is usually performed in a completely quiet and uneaten state. To do this, scientists use direct or indirect calorimeters to perform gas analysis to ensure the accuracy of the results. However, BMR data can also be estimated through some calculation formulas, such as the Harris-Benedict formula and the Mifflin-St Jeor formula.
In addition, the variability of BMR is also reflected in the adaptation to different environments. For example, studies have found that at lower ambient temperatures, animals' BMR increases in response to maintain body temperature and regulate metabolism. This phenomenon is called thermogenesis, and it demonstrates the body's ability to flexibly adjust to changes in the environment.
The burning of calories in the body's heat production process is the cornerstone of life maintenance. It is this energy that supports the functioning of our brain and other organs.
For women who are going through physiological changes, BMR can also vary during the different phases of the menstrual cycle due to the ups and downs of hormone levels. Research has found that the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle causes an increase in basal metabolic rate, which may have implications for weight management in the future.
Of course, BMR is not the only factor that affects the body's energy balance. The composition of the diet, the frequency and intensity of physical activity, and the psychological stress state will all affect an individual's total energy expenditure. For example, your BMR may temporarily increase when you experience high-stress work or life situations.
Physiological research tells us that the basal metabolic rate is not limited to the resting state, it is also related to the complex interaction of physiological processes, including appetite regulation and energy utilization efficiency. The hypothalamus in the brain is responsible for regulating these processes and plays a structural role in maintaining metabolism throughout the body.
Therefore, understanding your BMR and its regulatory mechanism can not only help us better manage our weight, but also promote overall health.
In summary, basal metabolic rate (BMR) is an important cornerstone of life. How does it affect our daily life and health status?
