Body Composition: BMI, Metabolic Rate & Fat Metabolism

Body composition analysis relies on BMI calculation, understanding BMR/RMR standards, and identifying the biochemistry behind fat metabolism and lipolysis.

Man reading instructions on pill bottle

Do Vitamins Speed Up Metabolism?

The term "metabolism" refers to the chemical reactions that take place in your body each day, and the energy -- in the form of calories -- that's burned carrying out those reactions.

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Studio shot of soy beans

Does Soy Make You Gain Weight?

Any food, eaten in excess, will make you gain weight, which includes foods made from soy. That doesn't mean that soy is inherently fattening, though; in fact, many soy-derived foods have nutrients that actually help with weight control.

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french fries and ketchup

The Cause and Effect of Obesity

It's no secret that America is struggling with an obesity epidemic. Turn on the TV, flip open a magazine or read a newspaper, and you're likely to see obesity-related stats and advice. And while the old adage "eat less and move more"

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Woman stepping on scale, low section, close-up

Symptoms of a Slow Metabolism

If you struggle to lose every ounce -- and seem to gain it all back by simply looking at a cheeseburger -- you know the power of a slow metabolism. Your metabolic rate depends on a few factors within your control, such as your activity level, but factors outside your control can play a role, too.

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close up of doctor and woman meeting at hospital

What to Do If Your BMI Is 18.5?

When it comes to the relationship between weight and health, there's no one-size-fits-all ideal you can call on to make sure you're on the right track. If your BMI is 18.5, you're on the low end of what's considered healthy, but you may or may not be at a healthy weight. If you're naturally very slim, a BMI of 18.

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hicken eggs in a basket

A Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Diet

Both low-carb and gluten-free diets get a lot of flak for being dieting "fads" -- but they're actually beneficial for many people.

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Close up of older person holding pills

Can Any Supplements Slow Down Metabolism?

If you're naturally thin, chances are you have a high metabolism. And while your metabolism makes it easy to avoid packing on excess pounds, it can actually get in the way of your results if you're trying to gain weight.

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Unhappy Caucasian woman standing on weight scale

Why Do I Gain Weight so Easily?

Losing weight is a difficult and long process for most people, but if your clothes feel a little tight when you even look at a cheeseburger combo, it can feel especially discouraging. Gaining weight easily might mean you have a slower-than-average metabolism, you need to readjust your perception of calories eaten vs.

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Woman pinching fat on her belly

How to Measure Subcutaneous Fat

Having enough subcutaneous fat to "pinch an inch" might not have the health risks of deep-abdominal visceral fat, but it can still get in the way of achieving a very lean and toned physique.

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Close-up of mother breastfeeding baby girl (6-12 months)

Reasons for Breast Lactation

The breasts are made up of a series of structures called lobules, connected to the nipple by a series of ducts, and surrounded by fat and connective tissues. Lactation, the release of milk from the breast, occurs upon the maturation of cells within the lobules.

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Traveller Stood At Window With Coffee Reading iPad

Does Too Much Coffee Make You Gain Weight?

Starting your day with a caffeine buzz isn't likely to cause weight gain -- coffee served black is low in calories. But overdoing it can make you pack on the pounds, especially if your beverage contains added sugar and milk.

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woman with fat hips trying to lose weight

How to Naturally Lose Belly Fat in One Week

Whether you're headed to the beach, prepping for a special occasion or just want to jump-start a healthier lifestyle, you can set the foundation for belly fat loss in a week.

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Woman measuring waistline

Healthy Body Measurements for a Woman

It's no secret that excess fat poses a health risk; carry too much extra weight, and you'll face a higher risk of dementia, cardiovascular disease and even certain types of cancer. With their body measurements, women can use one of a few methods to determine if they're at a higher risk for disease.

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Women on treadmills

Losing Hard Fat Vs. Soft Fat

Excess fat in your body falls into one of two categories -- subcutaneous "soft fat" which lies right under your skin, and visceral "hard fat," located deep in your abdomen.

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Couple jogging in autumn nature

Fat Burning Vs. Carbohydrate Burning

Food has a big role in culture, society and quality of life -- obviously, it's delicious! -- but, ultimately, food is fuel. The carbs and fat in food both serve as sources of fuel for your cells and tissues, and help you power through your day-to-day activities, including tough workouts.

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Parents feet with their new born Child

Height-to-Foot-Size Ratio

While you might be more familiar with other health-related ratios -- like weight-to-height ratios or waist-to-hip ratios -- the foot-to-height ratio can be helpful in some situations.

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