Basal metabolic rate and cardiovascular diseases in women: mechanistic insights and clinical implications

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) pose a significant threat to global public health and are the leading cause of death in women. Basal metabolic rate (BMR), which reflects the minimum energy expenditure required to maintain essential physiological functions at rest, has emerged as a crucial indicator of energy metabolism and a potential predictor of disease risk and health status. This review comprehensively examines the role of BMR in women’s CVDs, exploring its associations with body composition, thyroid function, mitochondrial efficiency, and the autonomic nervous system. It also delves into how BMR influences CVD risk across different physiological stages in women, including the reproductive years, pregnancy, and menopausal transition. Furthermore, this review proposes a diagnostic and therapeutic framework centered on BMR, encompassing precise assessment, pharmacological interventions, lifestyle modifications, and the application of emerging technologies. The aim is to enhance women’s cardiovascular health and reduce premature mortality.

Keywords

Basal metabolic rate / cardiovascular disease / female

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