We all have heard people saying ‘his/her metabolism is slow or fast’ our entire lives, but what does it mean and how does it affect our bodily functions?
Metabolism refers to the chemical reactions which take place in our body while turning nutrients into energy. It provides energy to perform the basic functions of the body like digestion and breathing.
There are two types or forms of metabolism; catabolism and anabolism. Catabolism refers to the breakdown of complex substances to their primary parts. Large and complex molecules in the body are broken down into smaller, simpler ones. For example; glycolysis, etc.
Anabolism is basically when simpler and smaller molecules combine to generate bigger and complex molecules. For example; growth, increase in muscle mass, etc. In simpler words, it is a complex procedure that combines calories and oxygen to create and release energy and this in turn fuels the body functions.
You must have heard about the term Basal Metabolic Rate or BMR which basically refers to the minimum number of calories your body needs to function while you’re at rest. If you have a fast BMR your body will burn a lot of calories while at rest and if you have a slow BMR your body needs fewer calories to keep it going.
But have you ever wondered what all issues you can face due to improper metabolism? When the metabolism process fails it causes the body to have either too little or too much of the crucial substances that our body needs to stay healthy leading to metabolic disorder.
Metabolic disorders can take numerous forms. Some of them are as follows:
- Any enzyme or vitamin could be absent in the body that are necessary for chemical reactionsAbnormality in chemical reactions that hamper metabolic processes
- A disease in organs like pancreas, liver, or others that are involved in metabolism
- Deficiencies in adequate nutrition needed by the body
Some of the common metabolic disorders are as follows:
1. Diabetes
We always assume that only old people have diabetes but it is no longer true, the number of children and young adults suffering from diabetes has increased exponentially. Having a slower metabolism and no major lifestyle changes can result in excess of weight which can therefore cause insulin resistance. This insulence resistance often results in Type 2 Diabetes. We need to realise the dangers of diabetes, which can cause major heart problems.
2. Gaucher’s Disease
You don’t know what a gaucher’s disease is? Don’t worry, we got you! Gaucher’s disease is caused by an excess buildup of some fatty substances in some organs, like your liver. It is a rare and inherited metabolism.
3. Hunter Syndrome
Hunter syndrome is also a rare genetic disease majorly found in boys. In this disease, the body doesn’t digest sugar molecules properly in the body. If these non-digested molecules build up in any organ or tissue then it may cause physical or mental issues in the long run. Some of the common symptoms of this disease are skeletal irregularities, thickening of lips, a deep voice, etc.
4. Krabbe Disease
Krabbe disease is somewhat like hunter syndrome, it is caused by the build up of excessive fatty materials (like oils and waxes) in different cells or tissues, resulting in the destruction of brain cells. It is named after the Danish neurologist, Knud Krabbe and is not at all related to the sea animal called ‘crab’ in any way which is the usual assumption.
5. Phenylketonuria (PKU)
PKU leads to the inability of producing the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase. This results in mental retardation, organ damage, and unusual posture. One of the treatments include limiting intake of protein that one consumes in their diet.
Now that you know the importance of metabolism in our body and how we should take steps to keep it healthy, it’s time that you take the first step to keep it healthy. We’ve got the perfect supplement for that! Meta Re-Balance - an amalgamation of ayurvedic elements that not only will help you keep your metabolism healthy, but also help you boost your immunity and lose weight.