Metabolic

Metabolism refers to the complex network of chemical reactions that occur within living organisms to maintain life. These processes enable organisms to grow, reproduce, repair damage, and respond to their environment. It is fundamentally divided into two categories: catabolism, where molecules are broken down to release energy, and anabolism, where energy is used to build complex molecules from simpler ones. Enzymes play a critical role in regulating these metabolic pathways, ensuring that substances are broken down or synthesized as needed.

From a medical perspective, metabolic conditions are disorders that affect the biochemical processes of the body. These may include common diseases such as diabetes mellitus, where insulin regulation is impaired, leading to imbalances in blood glucose levels. Other metabolic issues involve disorders in lipid metabolism, like hypercholesterolemia, or inborn errors of metabolism like phenylketonuria. The management of metabolic conditions often involves dietary interventions, medications, and lifestyle changes to correct or mitigate the metabolic imbalances, thereby improving the patient's health and quality of life.