Definition

Metabolism refers to all the physical and chemical processes in the body that create and use energy, such as:

  • Digesting food and nutrients
  • Eliminating waste through urine and feces
  • Breathing
  • Circulating blood
  • Controlling body temperature
  • Contracting muscles
  • Functioning of the brain and nerves
Images:
Review Date:10/25/2006
Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, M.D., Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.