Metabolism is the process by which our bodies convert the food we eat into energy. This energy is essential for everything we do, from breathing and moving to thinking and growing. Metabolism involves two main processes: catabolism, which breaks down food to release energy, and anabolism, which uses that energy to build and repair tissues. Different factors can affect metabolism, including age, gender, and activity level. For example, muscle mass can increase metabolic rate because muscles require more energy to maintain than fat. Understanding metabolism can help us make better choices about our diet and exercise, leading to a healthier lifestyle.