METABOLISM MADE SIMPLE

Metabolism: a definition



We call metabolism the totality of the chemical reactions/procedures which support life by converting food intake to energy.


Anabolism is the part of metabolism responsible for the building of cell components.
Catabolism, conversely, is responsible for breaking down organic tissues.



Metabolism : Facts



1) Our metabolism works even while sleeping. It just slows down. With great approximation metabolism during sleeping is equal to our basal metabolism. Basal metabolism or better, basal metabolic rate is the energy expended to support the fundamental functions of the body while at rest.


2) Metabolism can be considered as a total sum of:


a) The basal metabolism which normally represents the biggest part of our caloric expenditure.

b) One small fraction of metabolism used for digestion and thermogenesis.


c) The metabolism related to the total daily physical activity.


3) Basal metabolism reduces as age increases. This is due to muscle mass reduction. Older people move less and they lose muscle. Women have a slower metabolism because they have less muscle (both as percentage and absolutely).


4) The best option to compensate for age relate muscle loss is by far strength training.
It will keep or increase muscle mass which is more active metabolically than fat( although this is usually severely overestimated).



5) Intense exercise boosts metabolism.


- during the activity (obvious conclusion)


- after it has finished.


The second ascertainment derives from the fact that after exercise and for a certain time there is:


- increased activity of the cardiovascular system


- higher body temperature


- muscle damage restoration.


All these require additional caloric expenditure – afterburn – which is an extra bonus, although rather overestimated.


6) Don’t forget the fundamental energy axiom: Intake of more calories than those we burn, will mathematically lead to weight increase.


7) There have been studies to detect possible links between basal metabolic rate and resting heart rate which is a premium fitness indicator.


Normally, fit people would be expected to be more active metabolically. Though , no clear correlation between the two values has been noted.


8) Nor has been confirmed any correlation between metabolic rate and exercise time of the day. This debunks the relevant with morning hours myth.


9) Eating during late hours: Undeservedly blamed for extra weight gain. Far more important are number of calories and food choices.


10) Severe caloric restriction will make your metabolism suffer. Nearly all diets have adverse effects on metabolism and certainly this is not the right way to go.


A balanced exercise programme combined with certain changes in your lifestyle is the proven way.




To your great health!



Chris Strogilis


http://www.macon.gr/
http://maconwaterproofing.blogspot.com//
http://totalfitness-christos.blogspot.com/
http://steganosi.blogspot.com/
http://monosimacon.blogspot.com/


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