While several factors can contribute to weight gain during mid-life, a slowing metabolism does not seem likely to be one of the factors, suggests new research.

A team of researchers noted that total energy that the body needs rises after birth and reaches a peak at about 1 year. After adjusting for weight, it was noted that 1-year-olds require more calories compared to adults. After 1 year, there is a decline in energy requirements by about 3% a year till the age of 20. Then the requirements remain steady through midlife, and decline again after the age of 60. The researchers stated that there appears to be no evidence for metabolism slowing in middle age. The findings suggest that metabolism remains steady from 20 to 60 years of age. The findings are published online in Science… (Medscape)