It is a simple matter of bio-chemistry that all living things need constant supplies of both energy and matter; the intake and conversion of these elements within a bodily system is known as the metabolism. The concept of “metabolism” is an easy one to clarify: given how all living things require energy to remain alive, and furthermore, given how energy does not simply drift around in a form that our bodies can process, we must receive it in another way.
This is done through the intake of high-energy matter, which we would refer to as “food.” The processes of chemical absorption and their linked chemical reactions which break down the matter for its stored energy are collectively known as “metabolism,” the sum total of these reactions. While metabolism is normally cited as a reason why people put on weight and having trouble taking it off, the study of how a person can speed up their metabolism to burn calories, replace fat, and grant someone more energy is very worthwhile.
Metabolism is a mixture of physical and chemical processes called anabolism and catabolism. Anabolism is the positive phase of metabolism in which body cells create protoplasm for development and repair. Catabolism is the negative phase of metabolism in which complex substances are broken down into simpler compounds creating energy which is necessary for the appropriate performance of body cells. Together, these processes distribute nutrients which are wrapped up into the blood after digestion.
Three factors decide your metabolic rate, which is the amount of calories your body makes use of every day. The basal metabolic rate is the rate your body uses energy for fundamental body processes. The rate you burn energy throughout physical activity and the rate you use energy in digestion of food are the two other factors involved in your total metabolic rate.
To increase your overall metabolism, you need to increase both your basal rate and your additional energy needs. The best way to do this is through exercise. Of course, the exercise itself will increase your overall energy use, but it will also help you to build muscle. The process of growing muscle and repairing muscle after exercise raises the basal rate. Your minimum energy needs are raised, even when you are not exercising. Thus, you are burning more calories long after you exercise. Aerobic exercise is the best for raising the metabolic rate, keeping it high for 4 to 8 hours after the workout ends.
