Metabolism Testing
Metabolic rate, or metabolism, is the rate
at which the body expends energy. This is also referred to as the
“caloric burn rate”. Knowing metabolic rate is vital for weight loss
as well as for determining the proper feeding amounts. Most diet plans are based on
caloric estimations. However, these estimations can be miscalculated by
as many as 200-500 calories per day. This can add up to 1-pound of weight
loss per week!
Energy Balance
The body gains or loses fat based on energy balance. Energy balance refers to the relationship between energy intake (eating) and energy expenditure (metabolic rate). The figures below describe the three states of energy balance.
Normal Energy Balance: Consumption and expenditure in balance, no weight gain or loss
Negative Energy Balance: Expenditure is greater than consumption (caloric deficit), causes weight loss.
Positive Energy Balance: Consumption exceeds expenditure (caloric surplus), leading to weight gain.
