ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Which of the following factors decreases an individual's basal energy expenditure?

1. increasing age

2. body temperature

3. caffeine consumption

4. nicotine use

The correct answer is: increasing age

When considering the factors that influence basal energy expenditure (BEE), increasing age is a significant contributor to its decrease. As individuals age, several physiological changes occur that can lead to a reduction in muscle mass and metabolic rate. Muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue, so a decrease in muscle mass can result in a lower BEE. Additionally, hormonal changes associated with aging can also contribute to this decline in metabolic processes. In contrast, other factors listed, such as body temperature, caffeine consumption, and nicotine use typically have an impact that either maintains or increases BEE. For example, elevated body temperature can lead to increased metabolic processes as the body expends energy to regulate temperature. Caffeine and nicotine are stimulants that can boost metabolism temporarily, leading to an increase in energy expenditure. Thus, while the other options may raise BEE, increasing age specifically contributes to its reduction.