What is metabolism and Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR)?
Metabolism is the conversion of food into energy which is then used to maintain bodily processes and to provide fuel for activity. Your resting metabolic rate (RMR) is the number of calories you burn while you are at rest and not exerting extra energy. RMR typically accounts for 60-70% of your daily energy expenditure. Exercise and daily activity account for about 20-30% and the digestion of food accounts for about 10% of your daily energy expenditure. Why is it important to know my Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR)? Weight maintenance is a function of energy balance. Energy balance is “calories in” vs. “calories out”. “Calories in” come from food in the form of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. “Calories out” is the energy used in resting metabolism, physical activity, and digestion of food. Therefore: if “calories in” equals “calories out,” then you will maintain your weight; if “calories in” is greater than “calories out”, then you will gain weight; if “calories out” exceeds “calories i