Metabolism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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metabolism
[məˈtæb.əl.ɪ.zəm ]
Definition
biological process
Metabolism refers to the complex set of chemical reactions that occur within a living organism to maintain life. These processes are vital for converting food into energy, allowing growth, reproduction, and the maintenance of cellular structures. Metabolism can be generally categorized into two main types: catabolism, which breaks down molecules to release energy, and anabolism, which builds complex molecules from simpler ones. The rate of metabolism varies among individuals and can be influenced by factors such as age, gender, genetics, and physical activity.
Synonyms
biochemical processes, energy transformation, nutritional processing.
Examples of usage
- Regular exercise can boost your metabolism.
- A person's metabolism slows down with age.
- Certain foods can increase metabolic rate.
- Metabolism is important for energy regulation.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Metabolism includes two main processes: catabolism (breaking down food to release energy) and anabolism (building up body tissues).
- The average adult burns about 2,000 to 2,500 calories a day through metabolism, varying with age, sex, and activity levels.
- Basal metabolic rate (BMR) measures the calories the body needs at rest to maintain basic functions, such as breathing and circulation.
Pop Culture
- Many diet trends focus on 'boosting metabolism' as a means to promote weight loss, often leading to various myths around foods and supplements.
- Popular fitness influencers often discuss how exercise affects metabolism, making it a trendy topic on social media.
Health
- Factors like muscle mass, age, and gender can influence how fast or slow one's metabolism is, affecting overall health.
- Conditions such as hypothyroidism can slow metabolism, while hyperthyroidism can speed it up, showcasing its impact on well-being.
Literature
- Numerous books and articles explore the relationship between metabolism, health, and diet, reflecting society's ongoing fascination with body image.
- Writers often use metabolism as a metaphor for change and transformation, drawing parallels between physical and personal development.
Origin of 'metabolism'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'metabole', meaning 'change', which reflects the body's continuous transformation of food into energy.
- The term has been in use since the late 19th century, showing how our understanding of body functions has evolved over time.
The term 'metabolism' originates from the Greek word 'metabole', which means 'change' or 'transformation'. It entered the English language in the 19th century, initially used to describe the physical and chemical processes that occur within living organisms. The understanding of metabolism has evolved significantly since then, especially with advancements in biochemistry and molecular biology. In the 20th century, scientists began to explore metabolic pathways and regulatory mechanisms that contribute to energy homeostasis and overall health. Today, metabolism is a fundamental concept in fields like nutrition, exercise physiology, and medicine, and continues to be a focal point of research in understanding how various factors, including diet and lifestyle, influence metabolic health.