Summary
Body weight reflects the balance of intake and expenditure, with leptin and ghrelin regulating appetite.
In depth
BMR accounts for about 60 to 70 percent of energy use; the thermic effect of food and activity add the rest. Leptin from fat signals satiety to the hypothalamus. Genetics, hormones and environment influence weight.
Energy in minus energy out determines weight over time. Adaptive thermogenesis changes expenditure. Hormones strongly influence appetite.
Key idea: body weight is regulated, not merely a matter of willpower.
Frequently asked questions
What is Energy Balance and Metabolism?
Body weight reflects the balance of intake and expenditure, with leptin and ghrelin regulating appetite.
Which area of biology covers Energy Balance and Metabolism, and how advanced is it?
Energy Balance and Metabolism is one of the 51 topics in Human Physiology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Gut Hormones, Nutrition and Diet, Thermoregulation.
Can you give an example of Energy Balance and Metabolism?
Leptin deficiency causes severe obesity.
What should I learn before Energy Balance and Metabolism?
Work through the Beginner topics in Human Physiology first, such as Homeostasis, Tissues and Organs, Skeletal System, then return to Energy Balance and Metabolism. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Energy Balance and Metabolism?
The closest topics to Energy Balance and Metabolism are Gut Hormones, Nutrition and Diet, Thermoregulation, Exercise Physiology. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Energy Balance and Metabolism?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Energy Balance and Metabolism. To practise the whole of Human Physiology, use the Human Physiology quiz.
How is Energy Balance and Metabolism different from Gut Hormones?
Energy Balance and Metabolism: Body weight reflects the balance of intake and expenditure, with leptin and ghrelin regulating appetite. Gut Hormones: Gastrin, secretin and cholecystokinin coordinate digestive secretions and motility. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Energy Balance and Metabolism step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Gut Hormones and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Human Physiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.