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( Basal metabolic rate) Basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the amount of energy expended while at rest in a neutrally temperate environment, in the post-absorptive state (meaning that the digestive system is inactive, which requires about twelve hours of fasting in humans). The release of energy in this state is sufficient only for the functioning of the vital organs, such as the heart, lungs, brain and the rest of the nervous system, liver, kidneys, sex organs, muscles and skin. BMR decreases with age and with the loss of lean body mass. Increased muscle mass can increase BMR. Aerobic fitness level, a product of cardiovascular exercise, while previously thought to have effect on basal or resting metabolic rate (RMR), has been shown in the 1990s not to correlate with BMR, when fat-free body mass was adjusted for (see following section "Aerobic vs. anaerobic exercise" for references). Illness, previously consumed food and beverages, environmental temperature, and stress levels can affect one's overall energy expenditure as well as one's BMR.

BMR is measured under very restrictive circumstances when a person is awake, but at complete rest. An accurate BMR measurement requires that the person's sympathetic nervous system not be stimulated. A more common and closely related measurement, used under less strict conditions, is resting metabolic rate (RMR).^[1]

BMR and RMR are measured by gas analysis through either direct or indirect calorimetry, though a rough estimation can be acquired through an equation using age, sex, height, and weight. Studies of energy metabolism using both methods provide convincing evidence for the validity of the respiratory quotient (R.Q.), which measures the inherent composition and utilization of carbohydrates, fats and proteins as they are converted to energy substrate units that can be used by the body as energy.

Basal metabolic rate is usually by far the largest component of total caloric expenditure. However, the Harris-Benedict equations are only approximate and variation in BMR (reflecting varying body composition), in physical activity levels, and in energy expended in thermogenesis make it difficult to estimate the dietary consumption any particular individual needs in order to maintain body weight. 2000 kilocalories is often quoted but is no more than a guideline.

Basal metabolic rate Subcategories Hormone Management > Hormone Strategies for Men > Hormone Management > Hormone Strategies for Women > Hormone Strategies for Men > > Hormone Strategies for Women > > Basal metabolic rate Articles Why It's Harder for Women to Lose Weight by Yuri Elkaim It has been my experience that, in general, women are at a distinct disadvantage when compared to men when it comes to obesity and their ability to lose weight. There are a couple of reasons that can help explain this phenomenon. First, wo... Weight Loss - Five Points To Keep In Mind by Jess Ba-ad Weight loss can be easy for some but difficult for most people. Whatever weight loss program you are up to, you need to keep in mind the 5 following points. 1. Basal Metabolic Rate(BMR) When you are at rest, your body still burns calo... Controlling Your Metabolism by Geoff Beers Controlling Your Metabolism Weight loss programs continue to be at the forefront of everyday health news. Fad diets replace each other almost as quickly as they are created. Doctors and health advisors are constantly recommending strategie... Baby Steps to Weight Loss, Part 2 by Kristy Haugen Copyright 2006 Kristy Haugen The basal metabolic rate or BMR is the minimum caloric requirement needed for the body to sustain life in a resting state. The BMR is the minimal amount of calories required to sustain necessary bodily processes su...