What Is Metabolic Testing?

We talk a lot about metabolic testing and the importance of it as we develop treatment plans for our clients and track their progress. But you may be wondering: What is metabolic testing?

A metabolic test is a breathing test that tells us an individual’s resting metabolic rate (RMR). 

Below is a picture of the metabolic cart that we use in our office. The patient’s breath is measured via the tube, which connects to a canopy hood or plastic “bubble.” The patient sits underneath and breathes normally for 20 to 30 minutes as the machine measures carbon dioxide out versus oxygen in. This ratio, then, determines the RMR. 

“In order to get an accurate result on the test, we ask the individual to fast for at least four to five hours. Typically, though, they come in in the morning after an overnight fast,” explains dietitian Elaina Efird, RDN, CD, CEDRD, CSSD. “They also need to avoid caffeine, exercise, and any stimulant medication (like Adderall) to ensure we get the most accurate result at rest.”

Many patients feel fearful of the machine due to claustrophobia. However, the “bubble” is very light weight. “Even my most claustrophobic clients — the ones who get claustrophobic in an elevator! — haven’t been bothered by it,” Elaina adds.

At the Kahm Clinic, we complete metabolic testing for every individual who comes into our offices. 

We usually repeat the test every three to five months, depending on the client’s body composition analysis. Beyond revealing the client’s RMR, these results also tell us what the body is breaking down for fuel. Is it using muscle mass, fat, or food that you’ve eaten? “It gives us a really good idea of how the body is currently functioning,” Elaina says. “If there are some things that are off — like a really low metabolic rate — we can correct that with food.”

Even if an individual’s metabolic rate isn’t low, it still gives us a baseline and tells us how many calories their body uses just to exist. We can then compare that number to what their body should be burning and adjust their treatment plan accordingly. “We find it very helpful with all the clients that we see,” Elaina concludes. 

How does metabolic testing help your nutritional health though?

Here are three ways that metabolic testing results could help you as you work to meet your nutritional goals.

1. You will understand what your body needs.

Our society is filled with mixed messages when it comes to diet and exercise. It can be hard to know what’s actually beneficial and what’s not healthy at all! With these results, you’ll know exactly what your body is burning each day outside of general movement and exercise. Our nutritionists can help you adjust your intake of fat, carbohydrates, and protein as you work to better your overall health.

2. You will improve your energy levels!

We often connect energy to sleep (or lack thereof), but did you know that it may be directly related to diet too? If you’re not eating enough nourishing calories, you won’t have enough fuel to get through the day. Thanks to metabolic testing, you can adjust your diet accordingly and finally kick that afternoon soda for good!

3. You finally understand why your body functions the way it does.

It’s not enough to know that your body is metabolizing your energy sources (fat, carbohydrates, and protein) incorrectly. It’s important to know why. For instance, if your body is burning too little fat for energy, it’s saving that fat because it's underfed. Our nutritionists explain these findings and then develop customized plans for each patient. 

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