Trying to lose weight is an uphill battle. You diligently track calories and sweat it out at the gym, but the results seem frustratingly slow. This might have you wondering: "Is my metabolism slow?"
Here at Iowa Weight Loss Specialists, we understand your struggle. That's where metabolic testing comes in – a powerful tool to shed light on your body's unique calorie needs and guide you toward a personalized weight loss plan.
We use metabolic testing known as indirect calorimetry, which measures your body's Resting Energy Expenditure (REE) or Basic Metabolic Rate (BMR). Think of REE/BMR as the minimum number of calories your body burns each day to maintain its current weight, even at rest. It essentially tells you your body's baseline "fuel needs.".
The test is simple, painless, and takes 10-15 minutes. You'll breathe into a tube while comfortably resting in a private room. For the most accurate results, it's best to schedule your test early in the morning, having fasted for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight), avoid caffeine, strenuous exercise, or stimulants like Sudafed beforehand.
Think of your body like a bank account and calories are your deposits. Your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is your baseline balance. This rate is the minimum energy your body needs to function at rest (like keeping your heart beating and brain functioning). The food and drinks you consume (carbs, protein, fat, and alcohol) are like deposits. These things provide your body with energy. This is similar to adding money to your account. If you consume more calories than you burn, you make a deposit bigger than your baseline needs. This excess energy gets stored as fat, leading to weight gain. Aiming for a calorie deficit (burning more calories than you consume) is like withdrawing from your account. This uses up stored energy (fat) and results in weight loss.
Metabolic testing goes beyond simply labeling your metabolism as "slow." It compares your REE/BMR to others with similar characteristics, providing a personalized benchmark. This helps us understand how various factors – lifestyle, activity, hormones, medications, muscle mass, sleep patterns, and even environmental temperature – can influence your baseline calorie needs.
Once we have your REE/BMR, we can create a customized weight loss plan with specific daily calorie goals. This plan, coupled with a food journal or calorie tracker, empowers you to make informed choices about your diet.
Metabolic testing is a valuable tool for anyone embarking on a healthy weight loss journey. It provides insights into your body's unique needs, allowing our weight loss specialists to create a personalized plan for sustainable fat loss and weight management.
Indirect Calorimetry/Metabolic testing is covered by health insurance because it’s recognized as a legitimate tool useful in weight loss clinics. A medical provider will relay an interpretation of the results to the patient during an office visit.
Find your perfect weight loss solution at Iowa Weight Loss Specialists. We offer options for everyone, including non-surgical programs, weight loss medications, and (for qualified patients) surgical procedures. Let's work together to create a personalized plan that fits your needs!
Contact us today to schedule your metabolic test and take the first step towards achieving your weight loss goals. We offer metabolic testing at our Ames, Belmond, Des Moines, and Fort Dodge locations.
Don't let weight loss struggles hold you back any longer. Schedule a consultation today and discover how metabolic testing can help unlock your weight loss success!
1111 Duff Avenue, Suite 2607
Ames, Iowa 50010
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403 1st Street SE
Belmond, Iowa 50421
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2700 1st Ave South, Ste 100
Fort Dodge, IA 50501
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840 West US Hwy 180
Garner, IA 50438
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5901 Thornton Ave, Ste 101
Des Moines, IA 50321
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