Basal Metabolic Rate

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the amount of energy expended while at rest in a neutrally temperate environment, in the post-absorptive state (meaning that the digestive system is inactive, which requires about twelve hours of fasting in humans). The release of energy in this state is sufficient only to support the functioning of the vital organs, such as the heart, lungs, brain and the rest of the nervous system, liver, kidneys, sex organs, muscles and skin.

Pronunciation

• Basal: /ˈbeɪsəl/
• Metabolic: /mɪˈtæbəlɪk/
• Rate: /reɪt/

Etymology

The term "Basal Metabolic Rate" is derived from the following words:

• Basal: From the late Latin 'basalis', from Latin 'basis' which means 'base'.
• Metabolic: From the Greek 'metabole' which means 'change'.
• Rate: From the Old French 'rate', which means 'rate or speed'.

Related Terms

• Metabolism
• Resting Metabolic Rate
• Thermogenesis
• Bioenergetics
• Calorimetry

See Also

• Energy expenditure
• Body mass index
• Physical activity level
• Diet and Nutrition

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