Resting Metabolism
Resting Metabolism or Resting Energy Expenditure (REE) is the minimum amount of calories a person requires without voluntary movement. People who are constantly fasting or eat very low calorie diets (<1000 kcal per day) typically have reduced metabolic rates. In contrast, AIDS or cancer patients usually have elevated metabolic rates.
Feeding status and the amount of fat-free weight (ie. muscle) have the greatest impact on a persons metabolism. This is why exercise becomes so important in weight loss programmes as it helps to develop muscle and promote an optimum metabolism. Under-eating on the other hand will reduce a persons metabolism as this is the body's way of protecting itself from wasting away.
If weight loss has been an issue for you then it will be worthwhile finding out your resting metabolism. This can then be monitored at different intervals to check that your eating and exercise regime is working.
The process takes about one hour. The first 20-30 minutes is a rest period prior to placing on the face mask. You then wear the mask for a further 20-30 minutes. Our goal is to find a 5-15 minute period when you are absolutely relaxed without movements or physical or mental distress.
There is also some pretesting requirements regarding meals and beverages. These are as follows:
Light Meals (< 500 kcals) - 4 hr fast
Medium/Heavy Meals (>500 kcals) - 8 hr fast
Caffeine Beverages - 8-12 hr fast
Non caffeine beverages (ie. milk, meal substitute shakes <500 kcals) - 4 hr fast
Nicotine Use - 8-12 hr fast
Light to moderate exercise - Abstain 18-24 hr
Intense exercise - Abstain 48hr
Restful sleep requirements - 8-12hr
