The Center for Metabolic and Weight Loss Surgery now incorporates metabolic analysis as part of its multidisciplinary weight loss program. The metabolic analyzer accurately determines the basal metabolic rate, or the number of calories burned at rest.
This testing is offered to patients who are surgical candidates at no charge. Patients who are not surgical candidates may request metabolic analysis for a small fee.
Why do you perform metabolic analysis testing?
The Metabolic Analyzer accurately calculates a person’s resting metabolic rate (RMR). This is the number of calories a person burns at rest for 24 hours. This indicates an individual’s maintenance caloric needs.
How does this information guide a patient’s treatment plan?
One of the most important steps in managing your weight is achieving a proper balance between your caloric needs and your daily caloric intake.
Your resting metabolic rate (RMR) can be used to determine the number of calories you need to consume each day in order to maintain your weight. Dietary intake can then be adjusted to achieve and maintain effective weight loss.
How is metabolic analysis performed?
The test is simple, noninvasive, and painless. The patient sits comfortably and simply breathes into a mask/mouthpiece for about ten minutes. The device collects and measures the volume of expired air and the oxygen levels in that air.
How does metabolic analysis determine metabolic rate?
When your body burns food for fuel, it requires oxygen and produces carbon dioxide. The device measures the amount of oxygen consumed at rest, and using that measurement, can calculate the calories burned during 24 hour a period.
How is metabolic testing used to treat obesity?
Depending on the resting metabolic rate, physicians can determine the optimal daily caloric intake needed to achieve gradual long-term weight loss. Periodic measurement of metabolic rate can also be used to assess the patient’s response to surgery, medications, or dietary changes.
While many patients believe that their metabolism may be abnormally slow, in fact most overweight or obese people have average or higher than average metabolic rates. Losing weight causes the metabolic rate to decrease. Deciding on the appropriate calorie intake to maintain stable weight after surgery can be aided with repeat measurement after weight loss stops.