Metabolism is often misunderstood as something that only affects body weight, but in reality, it plays a far greater role in overall health and daily functioning. Metabolism refers to all the chemical processes in the body that convert food into energy, repair tissues, regulate hormones, and support vital organs. Even at rest, your metabolism is constantly working to keep you alive and balanced.

A healthy metabolism influences energy levels, mental clarity, hormone balance, muscle strength, sleep quality, and long-term disease risk. It is made up of three main components: basal metabolic rate, physical activity, and the thermic effect of food. Together, these determine how efficiently your body produces and uses energy throughout the day.

Contrary to popular belief, metabolism is not solely determined by genetics. Lifestyle factors such as muscle mass, sleep quality, stress levels, nutrition, and physical activity play a major role in metabolic health. Poor habits like extreme dieting, chronic stress, and lack of sleep can slow metabolic efficiency and disrupt hormonal balance.