[34] Factors affecting Metabolic Rate

Question 1

What is metabolic rate?

Answer 1

The speed at which the body uses energy (calories) to support its basic functions and physical activity.

Question 2

List the main factors that affect metabolic rate.

Answer 2

• Age
• Sex
• Genetic factors
• Body size and composition
• Physical activity levels
• Hormone levels
• Environmental temperature
• Diet

Question 3

How does age affect metabolic rate?

Answer 3

Metabolic rate generally decreases with age due to muscle mass loss and decrease in physical activity.

Question 4

How does sex affect metabolic rate?

Answer 4

Men typically have a higher metabolic rate than women because they tend to have more muscle mass, heavier bones and less body fat.

Question 5

How do genetic factors affect metabolic rate?

Answer 5

Genetic factors can influence the speed of metabolism, the efficiency of metabolism, and the types of nutrients the body uses most effectively.

Question 6

How does body size and composition affect metabolic rate?

Answer 6

Larger people or those with more muscle mass typically have a higher metabolic rate because they have more cells and more mass requiring energy.

Question 7

How does physical activity level affect metabolic rate?

Answer 7

More physical activity results in more calorie use and a higher metabolic rate.

Question 8

How do hormone levels affect metabolic rate?

Answer 8

Hormones like thyroid hormones can increase metabolic rate, while others like insulin can decrease metabolic rate.

Question 9

How does environmental temperature affect metabolic rate?

Answer 9

Both high and low temperatures can increase the metabolic rate as the body works to maintain its normal temperature.

Question 10

How does diet affect metabolic rate?

Answer 10

Certain nutrients, especially proteins, can temporarily increase metabolic rate (thermic effect of food). Conversely, inadequate caloric intake can decrease metabolic rate as the body enters a ‘starvation mode’.