Deconstructing interindividual variability in energy metabolism: implications for metabolic health

A person's metabolic rate corresponds to the whole body level sum of all oxidative reactions occurring on the cellular level. The energy expenditure (EE) can be categorized into various obligatory and facultative processes. In sedentary adults, basal metabolic rate is the largest contributor to total daily EE, and interindividual variability can be significant. Additional EE is required for digesting and metabolizing food, thermoregulatory adaptation to cold, and to support exercise and nonexercise body movements. Interindividual variability also exists for these EE processes, even after controlling for known factors. The complex mechanisms of interindividual variability in EE can have genetic and environmental origins and require further investigation. Exploration of interindividual variability in EE and its underlying factors holds importance to metabolic health, as it may predict disease risk, and be useful in the personalization of preventative and treatment strategies.

Automated summary

A person's metabolic rate is the sum of all oxidative reactions occurring at the cellular level. The energy expenditure (EE) is categorized into obligatory and facultative processes. Basal metabolic rate is the largest contributor to total daily EE in sedentary adults, and there is significant interindividual variability. Additional EE is needed for digestion, thermoregulation, exercise, and nonexercise activities. The mechanisms of interindividual variability in EE have genetic and environmental origins, and further investigation is required. Understanding interindividual variability in EE and its underlying factors is important for predicting disease risk and personalizing prevention and treatment strategies.