Importance of BMR

Basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the rate of energy expenditure per unit time at rest. It can be expressed in units ranging from watts, milliliters of oxygen consumption per minute, or joule per hour per kilogram of body mass. The amount of oxygen an individual takes in and utilizes at rest is equal to 3.5 milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of body weight per minute or one Metabolic equivalent to oxygen consumption referred to as one MET. METs estimate the intensity of aerobic activities based on oxygen consumption during and compared to a resting state. Proper measurement of BMR may be met by assigning specific criteria. BMR may also be expressed as calories needed to maintain normal basic physiological function. This is the minimal number of calories necessary for normal function not including any activity. BMR can be calculated by using several equations. The Harris-Benedict is one of the most popular equations for calculating BMR. BMR may also be referred to as resting metabolic rate (RMR). RMR and activity are obviously very important to successful nutrition programs. Muscle or lean body mass is a very metabolically active tissue. Increasing muscle helps boost BMR. More muscle equates to a greater caloric expenditure in the long term. Basal metabolic rate is an excellent tool for healthy nutrition programs. The daily caloric intake must be adequate to keep the body healthy. Therefore, drastically depleting daily caloric intake or nutrients could have a profound detrimental impact on resting metabolic rate if continued for an extended time. Sometimes the effect may be reversed, but if followed too long may cause permanent impairment. We encourage everyone to consume adequate calories and nutrients to promote healthy body functions and metabolism. Eat smart and please view tpnperfectbodies.com for more articles and information.