Basal metabolic rate (BMR)


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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.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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