Identification

• People with fast metabolisms are typically slender and remain that way no matter how much they eat. One would think that a fast metabolism means cellular processes are operating efficiently, however, this is not always the case. Cell processes are a complex array a chemical reactions that require certain materials to be present in adequate amounts. A deficiency in a certain chemical or nutrient can trigger an unusually fast or an unusually slow metabolism. Problems with other organs, glands or systems within the body can also speed up metabolism processes.
  
  

Function

• The purpose of cellular metabolism processes is to provide energy for the cells. This energy is then used to process nutrient materials, build cell structures and carry out needed cellular repairs. Two methods are used to carry out these tasks: anabolism and catabolism. Anabolism takes place when energy is used to build cell structures from base materials. Catabolism occurs when energy is created through the breakdown of complex molecules, like glucose. An increased cell metabolism occurs when cells are stimulated by the hormones that regulate metabolism rate.
  
  

Thyroid Gland

• Cellular metabolism rates are regulated by two hormones produced by the thyroid gland--thyroxine(T4) and tri-iodothyronine(T3). The thyroid manufactures these hormones by combining tyrosine---an amino acid--with the iodine provided through dietary intake. These hormones travel through the bloodstream to reach every area of the body. The amount of T4 and T3 hormones received by each cell determines how fast its metabolism will go. When these hormones reach a high level in the blood, increased cellular metabolism rates will occur.
  
  

Symptoms

• Increased cellular metabolism processes may affect the body in adverse ways. Some of the symptoms include fatigue, sore or achy muscles, increased heartbeat, feeling overheated, continued weight loss regardless of dietary intake, and a feeling of overall nervousness. The causes of an overactive thyroid can stem from hereditary or environmental factors. Environmental factors include viral infection, stress, smoking, or it can be caused by the side effects from a medication. This condition can appear within any age group, from newborns to senior citizens.
  
  

Hyperthryroidism

• Hyperthyroidism is a condition associated with increased cellular metabolism. The thyroid gland--which sits just below the adam's apple--is enlarged when this condition is present. Hyperthyroidism comes in three forms: Grave's disease, toxic nodular goiter and subacute thyroiditis. Grave's disease is an autoimmune disorder in which a person's immune system has turned against the thyroid gland. Toxic nodular goiter is a non-cancerous nodule located inside a portion of the thyroid. The presence of the nodule causes the cells in the affected area to secrete excessive amounts of T4 and T3 hormones. Subacute thyroiditis is typically caused by a viral infection that causes the thyroid to become inflamed. However, once the infection is treated the disorder disappears within a few weeks.