METABOLISM IS defined as the process whereby the body converts food into energy or uses it for bodily repairs or stores it as fat for future use. This definition is more from the viewpoint of diet and weight loss. In simple terms, if we have a faster metabolism (like the rural people) we burn calories more efficiently and store less fat. Our metabolic rate is the rate and efficiency with which our body performs various functions and burns up calories while performing those tasks. Another term that is used is basal metabolic rate or resting metabolic rate. It is the number of calories we require to burn in order to fuel essential bodily processes and keep our organs and tissues in working order. This accounts for about 60 per cent of all calories consumed. The heavier the person, the more calories he or she needs to fuel these essential processes. All other calories are used to meet our additional energy needs based on our level of physical activity.