Georgia Virtual School (GAVS) Health Exam

What is metabolism?

1. The ability to lose weight

2. The process of understanding food

3. The process by which the body breaks down substances for energy

4. A method for tracking calories

The correct answer is: The process by which the body breaks down substances for energy

Metabolism refers to the complex set of chemical reactions that occur within the body to convert food into energy. It encompasses the processes through which the body breaks down nutrients from food, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, to release energy that is essential for maintaining bodily functions and supporting daily activities. In the context of metabolism, it is critical to understand how the body utilizes these nutrients. When food is consumed, it goes through digestion, during which enzymes break down the substances into smaller molecules. These molecules are then absorbed and utilized to fuel various cellular processes, making it a fundamental aspect of physiology and health. The other options do not accurately convey the essence of metabolism. Losing weight involves a caloric deficit, but it does not capture the biochemical processes that define metabolism. Understanding food can refer to nutritional knowledge, but again, it does not encompass the biochemical reactions of breaking down substances for energy. Tracking calories is a dietary strategy, but it lacks the broader scientific context of metabolic processes. Thus, recognizing metabolism as the process of breaking down substances for energy is essential for understanding how the body functions and maintains energy balance.