Chapter 19, Problem 1CP

Explain how the metabolic rate is influenced by exercise, ambient temperature, and the assimilation of food.

Summary Introduction

To review:

The effects of exercise, ambient temperature, and food assimilation on the metabolic rate.

Introduction:

Energy is essential to maintain constant expenditure of the living tissue. It can be obtained in two forms, either directly from the ATP (adenosine triphosphate) or indirectly by the cellular respiration of glucose, ketones, fatty acid as well as amino acids. Food is the source of these molecules, but the energy can also be obtained from glycogen, protein, or stored fat.

Explanation of Solution

Any change in body temperature affects the total metabolic rate. All the things the body does that turns food into energy and keep the body functioning is included in metabolism. A lot of energy is required by muscle cells for doing exercise. Hence, the metabolic rate increases while exercising.

The temperature of the body plays a significant role in the metabolic rate of the body. The hypothalamus has temperature-sensitive cells as well as the temperature centers that act on the instruments for change in body temperature. Any deviation in body temperature from the set point stimulates the hypothalamus to automatically correct the deviations and maintain the correct body temperature. The metabolic rate slows down in case the body temperature decreases.

The metabolic rate of a person is the total rate of the body’s metabolism. It can be measured in two forms, either via the amount of heat generated by the body or the consumption of oxygen by the body per minute. The food assimilation leads to an increased level of BMR or basal metabolic rate.