METABOLISM TESTING

Why Can't I Lose Weight?
Weight loss looks different for each person and can cause frustration when you do not know what works for you. Many factors can affect weight loss like eating habits, physical activity, sleep patterns, alcohol intake, food quality (i.e. take-out, restaurants, home cooking), hydration or metabolism.

Your metabolism converts food and stored fat into energy that your body can use to stay warm, move around, keep vital organs functioning, and even think. Metabolism can be measured in calories. The Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) represents the number of calories your body burns at rest (which means if you did nothing but lay in bed all day). Testing your RMR using a device called the BodyGem® can give our RDNs an accurate measurement of your calorie needs.

With your RMR, our RDNs have the details to create a plan for your metabolism and body composition. For some individuals, you may need to increase your exercise to lose weight. For others, you may need to adjust your nutrition. The BodyGem® helps us discover the difference.

How does the BodyGem® test work?
The test is simple. You breathe into the BodyGem® device. Once the device detects a regular breathing pattern, it should take no more than 10 minutes to obtain an accurate RMR measurement. Our RDNs interpret your results and create a personal plan for your success.

Process
The test measures the amount of oxygen you breathe in and the amount of carbon dioxide you produce, which measures your body’s energy burning process. Your body gets energy from calories that you eat. You need calories to feed the cells in your body and to function at a top level. Your body will burn or use calories in everyday activities: thinking, walking, sleeping or exercise. However, if you are taking in more calories than you are burning daily, you will gain weight. 

Results
The results of your BodyGem® test will allow our expert team to assess your daily activities and body composition, to provide you with the individual calorie level needed to lose weight. Note that over time your RMR will increase or decrease with changes in weight, age, or body composition.
*Always consult your physician before starting a nutrition or exercise regimen.

What factors affect my metabolism?
Your metabolism can be hundreds of calories different from your peers or family members. These are the factors that make your metabolism unique: weight, age, body composition (muscle vs. fat ratio), hormone levels and gender.

Why do metabolism-based programs work?
An accurate daily calorie target provides the single best piece of information available to lose weight.  It allows you to set an achievable goal to keep you motivated and focused. A nutrition plan can be completely customized when it is based on your body’s unique characteristics.  

Special Instructions before getting the BodyGem® test: 
In order to obtain an accurate measurement, follow these suggestions:
• Do not eat for at least 4 hours prior to the test.
• Do not exercise (cardiovascular or strength training) for at least 4 hours prior to the test.
• Do not consume caffeine for at least 3 hours prior to the test.
• Do not consume nutritional supplements or medications containing ephedra, Ma Huang, or      pseudoephedrine for at least 2 hours prior to testing.
• Do not consume nicotine for at least one hour before the test.
• Arrive for your appointment on time and try to be calm and relaxed.

A BodyGem® test might be right for you if you are:
• Trying to lose weight
• Trying to maintain weight 
• Diagnosed with weight-related conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea 
• Interested in improving overall health and fitness

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