Metabolism

Metabolism is the set of life-sustaining chemical transformations within the cells of living organisms. Attaining energy to carry out life activities and its conservation is central to metabolism. It is made up of catabolic pathways producing energy and anabolic pathways, consuming energy. Metabolism plays a key role in the conversion of food into energy and building blocks for proteins, lipids, nucleic acids and other molecules in the body. It is important for the maintenance of good health and in the prevention of many diseases. Metabolism also helps in maintaining the body’s pH balance, detoxifying the body and regulating hormones.