Metabolism plays a vital role in our weight. Consuming too many calories can prompt weight gain while too few can slow metabolism and interfere with weight loss. At Total HealthcareMD, our weight loss clinic in Cary,NC knows that it can be a challenge to understand metabolism.

Although there are formulas available to predict your metabolic rate, a metabolic test is the only accurate way. By pinpointing your particular metabolic rate, you can determine how many calories you need to consume each day to maintain your energy without overeating. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of metabolic testing and how it works.

 

What Exactly is Metabolism?

The rate at which the body expends energy is referred to as a metabolic rate or metabolism. Since the body increases or decreases fat based on the balance of energy, understanding  your metabolic rate is an essential component of weight loss. Our weight loss center stresses the importance of metabolic testing so that you can meet your weight loss goals and maintain a healthy weight for life.

Factors that Affect Metabolic Rate

There are a variety of factors that may affect your metabolic rate. Muscle mass, habitual exercise, a hyperactive thyroid, extreme environmental temperatures, periods of growth, caffeine, protein, nicotine intake, menstrual cycles, and pregnancy can all affect the rate of your metabolism. In addition, body composition and the presence of insulin and cortisol can play a role in metabolic rate.

Types of Metabolic Tests

Direct calorimetry and indirect calorimetry are two ways to measure your metabolic rate. Direct calorimetry involves monitoring the amount of heat produced by an individual when placed in a large room that allows for moderate activity. It measures energy expended in the form of heat.

Indirect calorimetry measures the amount of oxygen an individual consumes over a period of time. Due to the high cost of the machine and need for trained professionals, indirect calorimetry is typically reserved for research facilities and hospitals. However, the weight loss center at HealthcareMD is pleased to offer indirect calorimetry to our weight loss patients so that they can enjoy long lasting results.

Visit Total HealthcareMD for a Metabolic Test

To reap the benefits of indirect calorimetry, take a trip to Total HealthcareMD. Our sophisticated technology will track your exact metabolism so you know how many calories to ingest each day.

Below is a list of some of the programs we offer at our weight loss clinic in Cary:

For more information, please Contact Us or Request a Free Consultation. We look forward to helping you lose weight in the healthiest, safest, and most efficient way.