Metabolic Rate Testing in Chicago

What is a Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) Test?

What if you could pinpoint the way in which your metabolism affects your weight and use that data to make desired changes? Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) tests give doctors the information they need to customize weight loss and maintenance programs according to the unique factors that impact each patient’s weight gain.

Metabolism—the conversion of calories into energy. 

Metabolic Rate—the efficiency with which your body converts calories into energy. 

Factors that affect metabolic rate—weight, age, body composition, hormone levels, and gender.

Why Test your Metabolic Rate?

Dr. Lotsu uses a patient’s unique metabolic rate to customize each weight loss and maintenance program for various reasons.

• An RMR test screens for a slowed metabolism, which impedes weight loss.
• An RMR test reveals changes in metabolism during the weight loss process, which may explain a frustrating plateau.
• An RMR test gives the precise caloric prescription for maintenance to help sustain ideal goal weight.

How does the test work?

Using the same technology as ICU metabolic testing, KORR Metabolic Analyzers measures the oxygen a patient consumes to calculate how many calories are being converted to energy. (To be converted to energy, every calorie requires a fixed amount of oxygen.) The KORR Metabolic Analyzer collects all the air that a patient exhales and measures its oxygen consumption. Two one-way valves in the KORR MetaBreather allow only fresh air to be inhaled and all exhaled gas to be collected and analyzed.

Preparing for the Test

We recommend our patients follow the standard protocol for a Resting Metabolic Rate in order to collect the most accurate results. Prior to the test:

• Avoid eating 4 hours before.
• Refrain from exercising prior.
• Abstain from using stimulants, such as caffeine.

During the Test

During the test, you will be given a mouthpiece to breathe into as you recline in a comfortable chair. When you breath in air from the room, a metabolic analyzer will collect and analyze the gas you exhale. As we measure your metabolic rate, sit back, relax, and try to keep your lips lightly sealed around the Metabreather. The test only takes 10 minutes!