By measuring the basal metabolism we find out how much energy an organism consumes while resting and the amount of carbohydrates and fat it consumes. Basal metabolism is the minimum amount of energy needed for maintaining the vital body functions – those of the heart, the lungs, the kidneys, the nerve system etc.
Measuring the basal metabolism is performed by means of the device for spiro-ergometric testing. The testing takes half an hour while the patient is lying still and relaxing.
The obtained values are compared with the expected values for a certain age, sex and other factors and inform us whether a patient’s metabolism is “quick” or “slow”. The results provide us with accurate data concerning the energy consumption and are indispensable for making out individual dietary plans and workout plans.
Basal metabolism is the major part of total metabolism because our body consumes most energy – as much as 70-80% – for maintaining the vital functions. Energy consumption depends on many factors such as height, weight, age and sex. Basal metabolism diminishes as we age and the muscle mass decreases, and it also depends on the health status, the room temperature, the stress level and other external influences.