Energy and human metabolism

Metabolism is the process by which your body converts what you eat and drink into energy. During this complex process, calories in food and beverages are combined with oxygen to release the energy your body needs to function. There are two categories of metabolism: catabolism and anabolism. Catabolism is the breakdown of organic matter, and anabolism uses energy to construct components of cells, such as proteins and nucleic acids. Your metabolism constantly provides your body with energy for essential body functions like breathing and digestion. Your body needs a minimum number of calories (the basal metabolic rate or BMR) to sustain these functions. Factors like age, sex, muscle mass and physical activity affect metabolism or BMR. The basal metabolic rate of the body is controlled by the hormones T3 and T4, produced by the thyroid gland in response to the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), produced by the anterior pituitary. Many studies have shown that eating breakfast can increase your resting metabolism for the rest of the day by as much as 10%. A healthy breakfast of fruit and Greek yogurt, or a piece of whole wheat toast and a couple of eggs. You just need something simple and healthy to alert your body to start working. Although,there are few ways to increase your metabolism, eat plenty of good protein at every meal, drink more cold water, occasionally lift heavy things, stand up more, drink green tea or oolong tea, eat spicy food at times and get a good night's sleep. Mixing up your exercise routine, adding in a few high-intensity workouts, with corect eating, and sleeping pattern can boost your metabolism and help you burn fat.