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Metabolism

Metabolism is the totality of all physical and chemical processes associated with both the absorption of nutrients and the construction of living tissues from them, and with the breakdown of substances in the body.

Metabolism includes two interrelated processes:

1. Anabolism is a set of reactions for the synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones. This is the construction and renewal of cells and tissues of the body from nutrients supplied with food.

2. Catabolism is the breakdown of complex organic molecules into simpler compounds with the release of energy. This is the breakdown of body tissues and the release of energy for life.

Thus, metabolism maintains the constancy of the internal environment of the body, ensures growth and development, as well as energy production for all life processes.