Resting metabolic rate RMR can be affected by
several factors, including:
1. Age: RMR tends to decrease with age, as lean body mass typically decreases and fat mass increases.
2. Gender: Men generally have a higher RMR than women, as they typically have more lean muscle mass and less body fat.
3. Muscle mass: Muscle tissue burns more calories at rest compared to fat tissue, so individuals with higher muscle mass tend to have a higher RMR.
4. Physical activity level: The more physically active a person is, the higher their RMR will be, as their body will require more energy to fuel their activity.
5. Hormones: Thyroid hormones, such as T3 and T4, play a role in regulating metabolism and can affect RMR.
6. Genetics: Some individuals may have a naturally higher or lower RMR based on their genetic makeup.
7. Body composition: RMR is influenced by the amount of muscle mass and body fat a person has. Individuals with a higher percentage of muscle mass will typically have a higher RMR.
8. Diet: The types and amount of food a person consumes can impact their RMR. For example, a diet high in protein can increase RMR due to the thermic effect of food.
9. Health conditions: Certain health conditions, such as hypothyroidism or metabolic disorders, can affect RMR.
10. Medications: Some medications, such as certain types of antidepressants or mood stabilizers, can impact RMR.