What is resting metabolic rate?
Resting metabolic rate (RMR) refers to the amount of energy (calories) your body uses when it's at rest. This energy is necessary for maintaining vital functions like breathing, circulating blood, and regulating body temperature.
RMR accounts for the majority of a person's daily energy expenditure and varies based on factors like age, gender, muscle mass, and overall health.
What is the difference between resting metabolic rate and basal metabolic rate?
Metabolic Rate (RMR) is similar to Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR), but slightly different. BMR is measured under more restrictive conditions, typically in a lab setting, with the person at complete rest, not having eaten, and in a thermally neutral environment.
RMR, on the other hand, is a bit more flexible and can be measured under less controlled conditions, making it more practical for everyday use.
Both measure the energy used for basic bodily functions, but RMR is generally considered a bit higher than BMR due to its less stringent measurement conditions.Why is it useful to know resting metabolic rate?
RMR is a key component in understanding your body's energy requirements, aiding in healthier lifestyle choices.
You can use your RMR to help you with...
- Weight Management: Helps in planning diet or exercise for weight loss or gain by estimating the body's caloric needs at rest.
- Personalized Nutrition: Allows for tailored nutritional needs, ensuring correct calorie consumption for bodily functions.
- Health Assessment: Can indicate health conditions; a starting point for health evaluations.
- Fitness Planning: Useful for athletes or fitness enthusiasts in optimizing training and recovery strategies.
- Metabolic Insights: Provides insights into how the body processes energy, crucial for understanding metabolism.
How was my resting metabolic rate calculated?
This calculator uses the most recently revised version of the Harris-Benedict equation.
This revised formula was released in January 2023 and, developed by scientists at the food science departments of the International Hellenic University and the University of the Aegean.
You can read the paper detailing the development of this equation here.
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator, and others like it, provide useful estimates. They may not always be completely accurate for everyone.
Individual variations in metabolism, body composition, and other physiological factors can affect RMR. .
Can I get my resting metabolic rate professionally tested?
Yes, you can get your RMR professionally tested! A professionally conducted RMR test will have much greater accuracy than the results achieved from online calculators.
The most accurate method for measuring RMR is through indirect calorimetry, which involves breathing into a metabolic cart. The device calculates your RMR by measuring the oxygen you consume and the carbon dioxide you produce.
It's a non-invasive and straightforward test, usually conducted under controlled conditions like resting quietly for a period before the test.
You can visit a facility that offers metabolic testing services, such as a sports medicine clinic, some fitness centers, or a hospital's wellness department.