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Cracking the Calorie Code: What You Need to Know About Burning Calories

andrewkpt8

If you've ever wondered how your body burns calories, you're in the right place. Let's dive into the fascinating world of energy expenditure and uncover the secrets behind those numbers on your fitness tracker.



Your Body's Engine: Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR):

Think of your body as a high-performance machine, constantly humming along even when you're chilling on the couch. This baseline calorie burn is called your Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR). It's the energy your body uses just to keep the lights on - to breathe, circulate blood, and maintain a cozy body temperature. So, even during your Netflix marathons or beauty sleep, your body is still working hard behind the scenes.



The Digestive Dance: Thermic Effect of Food (TEF):

Now, let's talk about what happens every time you eat a delicious meal. Your body kicks into gear to digest, absorb, and store those nutrients. This process requires energy, and that's where the Thermic Effect of Food (TEF) comes in. TEF represents the calories your body burns to process and utilise the goodies from your plate. Fun fact: protein-rich foods like chicken or beans tend to give your metabolism an extra boost compared to other macronutrients like fats or carbs.



Get Moving: Activity Energy Expenditure (AEE):

Time to lace up those shoes. Activity Energy Expenditure (AEE) covers all the calories you burn through physical activity - whether it's sweating it out in a workout class, going for a brisk walk, or even while you clean the house. Every little bit of movement adds up, helping you burn those extra calories and stay in tip-top shape.


Understanding these three pieces of the calorie puzzle is like having the keys to unlocking your fitness potential. By knowing how your body burns calories through RMR, TEF, and AEE, you can make smarter choices to support your health and fitness goals.

So, whether you're aiming to shed a few pounds, gain muscle, or simply live your best, most energetic life, keep these factors in mind. By making small tweaks to your diet and lifestyle, you can supercharge your calorie burn and hit your fitness goals.

Remember, knowledge is power - and now that you're armed with the facts, there's no stopping you on your fitness journey. Keep moving, stay nourished, and watch those calories burn!


As a health and exercise professional based in NW London, my mission is to guide individuals on their journey to wellness. Whether it's crafting personalised workout plans, providing health advice, or offering motivational support, I'm dedicated to helping you reach your health and fitness goals. Let's work together to make sustainable lifestyle changes for a healthier, happier you!

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