Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What is metabolism?

1. The absorption of nutrients in the body

2. The amount of energy used at rest

3. The chemical processes that support life

4. The elimination of waste products

The correct answer is: The chemical processes that support life

Metabolism refers to the broad range of biochemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life. This includes the conversion of food into energy, the synthesis of necessary compounds, and the breakdown of molecules, all of which are vital for growth, reproduction, and overall functionality of the body. The processes involved in metabolism can be categorized into two main types: catabolism, which breaks down molecules to produce energy, and anabolism, which utilizes that energy to construct vital components of cells and tissues. While the other choices touch on aspects of nutrition and bodily functions, they do not encompass the entirety of what metabolism entails. Absorption of nutrients and elimination of waste products are important components of this larger process, but they do not represent the complete picture of metabolism as a sequence of chemical reactions. Similarly, the amount of energy used at rest relates to metabolic rates but doesn't define metabolism itself. Thus, recognizing metabolism as the comprehensive suite of chemical processes necessary for sustaining life clarifies its fundamental role in biology and health.