Basal Metabolic Rate

Alternate Terms:
  • BMR
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Basal Metabolic Rate Definition by Healthwise:

Basal metabolic rate (BMR)

Basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the average daily amount of energy needed by a body when it is at rest. Heredity, height, body composition, and age determine a person's basal metabolic rate.

The energy in a person's basal metabolic rate is used to maintain body temperature and to power the heartbeat, breathing, and other organ functions. The average person's basal metabolic rate accounts for about two-thirds of the energy he or she expends.

Author: Jeannette Curtis
Medical Review: Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated: May 25, 2007

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