Energy balance (biology)
Energy Balance (Biology)
Energy balance in Biology refers to the equilibrium between energy intake (in the form of food and drink) and energy expenditure (in the form of metabolism and physical activity). The concept of energy balance is central to the understanding of Nutrition, Metabolism, and Health.
Pronunciation
Energy Balance: /ˈɛnərdʒi ˈbæləns/
Etymology
The term "energy balance" is derived from the Latin "energia" meaning activity, operation, and the Old French "balance" meaning equilibrium or steadiness.
Related Terms
- Calorie: A unit of energy used in nutrition.
- Metabolism: The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.
- Nutrition: The science that interprets the nutrients and other substances in food in relation to maintenance, growth, reproduction, health and disease of an organism.
- Physical Activity: Any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure.
- Health: The state of being free from illness or injury.
Energy Intake
Energy intake is the amount of energy a person receives from food and drink. This energy is measured in calories. The body needs a certain number of calories each day to function properly. The exact number varies depending on factors such as age, sex, weight, and level of physical activity.
Energy Expenditure
Energy expenditure refers to the energy the body uses to carry out all its functions, from complex processes like growth and repair to simple tasks like breathing and digesting food. The body's energy expenditure can be divided into three main components: basal metabolic rate (BMR), physical activity level (PAL), and the thermic effect of food (TEF).
Energy Balance and Health
Maintaining a healthy energy balance is crucial for overall health. When energy intake and expenditure are in balance, a person maintains their weight. When energy intake exceeds expenditure, a person gains weight. Conversely, when energy expenditure exceeds intake, a person loses weight. Imbalances in energy can lead to health problems such as Obesity and Malnutrition.
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