Metabolic rate is a measure of how much food, or fat, is converted to energy in a day. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is the measurement of how much food, or energy, is required to maintain basic body functions such as heartbeat, breathing, and maintenance of body heat while you are in a state of rest. That energy is expressed in calories per day. So an RMR test shows how many calories you burn at rest, doing nothing more than sitting in a chair.
- There is no such thing as one size fits all, especially when it comes to how many calories you need in a day.
- Our genetic make-up uniquely affects our ability to burn calories.
- An RMR test can screen for a slow metabolism, which may explain past difficulties losing weight.
- Weight loss decreases metabolic rate. It’s important to track this natural occurrence & make the necessary changes to avoid plateaus.
- Metabolic rate fluctuates for about 6 months after significant weight loss. Stay on top of your caloric needs so you don’t accidentally undermine all your hard work!
Pre-Test Requirements: It is desirable to measure a person’s metabolic rate at a true resting level. To ensure one is at rest, we recommend the following preparation:
- Avoid eating a meal 4 hours before the test.
- Avoid exercising on the day of testing.
- If possible, avoid the use of stimulants such as caffeine prior to testing.
- During the test it will be important to get into a comfortable position and relax as much as possible.
- Keep lips sealed lightly around the mouthpiece. It is important that all the air breathed out is analyzed by the MetaCheck™
