A fast or slow metabolism can generally be determined by the basal metabolic rate. Basal metabolism refers to the basic energy metabolism that sustains the body’s life activities and is mainly affected by gender, age, height, weight and health status. The formula for calculating basal metabolic rate is: basal metabolic rate % = (pulse rate + pulse pressure difference) – 111. Measurement should be done in the morning in a quiet state. A value of -15% to +15% is considered normal. If the basal metabolic rate is abnormal, the patient may be suffering from some kind of disease. Metabolic abnormalities may be caused by diseases such as hyper- or hypothyroidism. Patients with abnormal metabolic levels are advised to consult a medical professional for treatment.