How does metabolism contribute to energy production and utilization?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 28-year-old male. I am very much interested in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Could you provide a clear explanation of metabolism and its role in the body's functioning? How does metabolism contribute to energy production and utilization? I am curious to know about the factors that influence an individual's metabolism. I have heard that metabolism tends to slow down with age. So, how does aging affect metabolism? Are there any lifestyle practices that can help mitigate this natural decline?

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Metabolism refers to the whole sum of reactions that occur throughout the body within each cell and that provide the body with energy. This energy gets used for vital processes and the synthesis of new organic material. The process is by two mechanisms.

Catabolism – This process is mainly involved in breaking down larger organic molecules into smaller molecules. This metabolic process releases energy.
Anabolism – This process is mainly involved in building up or synthesizing compounds from simpler substances required by the cells. This metabolic process requires and stores energy.

The processes of metabolism depend on the nutrients that get digested to produce energy. This energy is necessary to synthesize nucleic acids, proteins, and other biomolecules in our body. To be fit and healthy, we need to avoid more calorie intake and lose extra pounds. We eat to deliver energy for our body to perform its functions. Eating too little quantities could slow down our metabolism and the body cannot provide essential minerals. As per the research, extreme dieting leads to weight loss which is muscle mass and not fat mass. Having a proper breakfast boosts the body’s metabolism and keeps us energetic throughout the day. Skipping morning breakfast is more likely to have poor metabolic energy. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and can activate our metabolism rate by five to eight percent. Including more organic foods like peaches, bell peppers, celery, apples, lettuce, and grapes can boost the metabolism rate in our body.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.