What is metabolism?
Metabolism is a word of Greek origin that means change, transformation or evolution of something. Speaking of metabolism are referring to the set of biochemical reactions suffered by all agencies in the cells with the aim of obtaining and exchanging matter and energy with the environment. Reactions influence processes such as digesting food and nutrients, eliminating waste through urine and feces, respiration, blood circulation and regulate body temperature.
There are two major metabolic processes, which are called anabolism and catabolism. Anabolism, also called phase biosynthetic or constructive metabolism, synthesis reactions are needed for new cell growth and maintenance of tissues.
There are diseases associated with metabolism, defined as inborn errors. When a person lacks a certain enzyme (proteins that catalyze or accelerate chemical reactions) as a result of inherited evil, there is a chemical transformation that will remain undone.
For example, people who do not have the enzyme lactase, are unable to digest milk as they can not catalyze lactose in it. When that product is not able to synthesize, accumulate excessive amounts in the body and causes damage to tissues or prevents certain intracellular materials pass through the cell membrane.