Metabolic Testing
Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) Testing
What is Resting Metabolic Rate Testing?
Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) is the baseline amount of energy (calories) your body burns at rest just to sustain vital bodily functions, such as breathing, circulation, and cellular repair. Because RMR is unique to every individual, direct measurement takes the guesswork out of standard estimation equations.
Using the BodyGem indirect calorimeter—a clinically validated, FDA 510(k)-cleared Class II medical device (identical in technology to the MedGem) we measure your exact oxygen consumption to determine your unique baseline metabolic rate.
Who Can Book & Pricing
Eligibility: Available to current 1:1 clients as well as individuals working with outside healthcare providers or therapists.
Cost: $75 per test (Self-pay only; insurance is not accepted for this service).
Total Appointment Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
How to Prepare for Your Test
To ensure accurate results, please follow these pre-test instructions:
No Food or Beverages for 4 Hours: Refrain from eating or drinking anything besides plain water.
No Exercise for 4 Hours: Avoid both aerobic exercise and strength training.
No Caffeine or Stimulants for 4 Hours: Avoid caffeine, nutritional supplements, and medications containing pseudoephedrine.
No Nicotine for 1 Hour: Avoid smoking or using nicotine products.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Rest Period (10 Minutes): When you arrive at the office, you will relax quietly for 10 minutes to bring your heart rate and respiration down to a true resting state.
The Measurement (10 Minutes): You will sit comfortably in a quiet setting, wear a soft nose clip, and breathe normally through a disposable, single-use mouthpiece.
Your Results Report: You will receive a personalized digital report detailing your measured RMR, baseline caloric requirements, and tailored nutrition recommendations based on your activity level and goals.
A Gentle Note for Those in Eating Disorder Recovery
Because this report includes specific caloric data and energy targets, reviewing the numbers directly can sometimes feel overwhelming or triggering.
If you are currently navigating eating disorder recovery, we can arrange for the results to be sent directly to your outpatient provider or treatment team instead of to you. Your dietitian or therapist can then integrate the data into your recovery plan in a way that feels safe and supportive.