Metabolism

metabolism

Metabolism is the whole set of chemical reactions your body uses to turn food into energy and building blocks for cells. It includes processes that break down nutrients to release energy and others that build up molecules the body needs, like proteins and fats. These reactions happen in every cell and are organized into pathways that respond to what you eat, how active you are, and signals from hormones. Mitochondria, often called the cell’s power plants, play a central role by converting nutrients into usable energy. Why metabolism matters is simple: it keeps you alive and functioning. A healthy metabolism helps maintain body temperature, support movement, grow and repair tissues, and eliminate waste. When metabolic processes go awry, it can lead to conditions such as diabetes, obesity, or thyroid problems, and it affects how your body handles medicines and nutrients. Metabolism also changes with age, activity level, and diet, so lifestyle choices can have a big effect on how efficiently your body uses energy.