Understanding Your Metabolic System

Last updated 7 months ago

You may hear about the benefits of boosting your metabolism for weight loss, but what does that mean and how does your metabolism relate to your weight? Your metabolic system plays an important role in how your body processes food, which in turn can have an effect on your weight. Understanding your body’s metabolism can help you tailor a diet, exercise and supplement plan to help you reach your weight loss goals.

Biochemical Changes

Consisting of a series of biochemical changes, your metabolic system can be subdivided into two types of metabolism. Catabolism describes the chemical reactions that take large molecules and breaks them down into smaller molecules; when these molecules are broken down, energy for the body is created. Anabolism, on the other hand, is a chemical reaction by which smaller molecules are combined into larger units. These newly formed chemical bonds store energy.

Metabolic Rate

Your metabolic rate is the amount of energy you create per unit of time. Several factors can affect your metabolic rate, including how recently you’ve eaten, the frequency and intensity of your physical activity, hormone levels and your current mental state.

Your basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the minimum number of calories your body needs to sustain your life through breathing, repairing and creating cells, circulating blood, and adjusting hormone levels. The majority of the calories you burn throughout the day and night are used to support the basic functions of your body. Factors that affect your BMR include:

Age
Gender
Diet
Exercise
Percentage of body fat
Body temperature
Genetics

Metabolism and Weight Loss

For some individuals with a slow metabolic rate, weight loss can be a constant challenge. To help you boost your metabolism, ask your weight loss program about medications and supplements that can kick-start your metabolism. A faster metabolism means your body is more efficient at turning foods, fats and other molecules into fuel for your body.

To learn more about how to jumpstart your metabolism, contact Valley Medical Weight Control today. Valley Medical Weight Control can help you lose the weight and keep it off. Our Phoenix weight loss programs combine fat-burning injections and appetite suppressants with exercise and a healthier lifestyle to maximize our patients’ weight loss results. Visit us online or call us today at (888) 502-5405.

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