Q: What is Basic Metabolism Rate, how is it calculated and can it be increased? If yes, how?

A:The basal metabolic rate (or the basal energy expenditure) is the resting expenditure of energy by the healthy body. It is calculated from a formula: 66 + (13.7 x weight in kg.) + (5 x height in cm.) - (4.7 x age). The result of the calculation gives the number of calories the body must use each day and it can only be changed if the weight changes. The overall calorie use of a person will depend on additional factors, with more expenditure occurring with exercise, appropriate dietary manipulation, illness with stress, or fever, and perhaps certain drugs such as caffeine or ephedra. Weight loss or gain programs require changes in customary diet (calories) and exercise. Other approaches are far less satisfactory.