Final answer:
An individual's Basal Metabolic Rate can be increased by having higher lean muscle mass and being under stress due to the associated hormone release. Low thyroid levels would decrease BMR, not increase it, and a restrictive diet typically reduces BMR as a physiological response to lower energy intake.
Step-by-step explanation:
Factors that would increase an individual's Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) are influenced by a variety of physiological conditions. Not all options provided would result in an increased BMR.
- C Having higher lean muscle mass: Lean tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue, so having more lean muscle mass will increase BMR.
- D Stress: The emotional state, including stress, can increase the BMR due to the release of hormones like norepinephrine, which tends to raise the metabolic rate.
- E Low thyroid levels: This is incorrect as higher levels of thyroid hormones, such as thyroxine, increase BMR. Low levels of thyroid hormones would decrease BMR.
Other factors such as age, sex, and overall health also play significant roles. For example, younger individuals tend to have a higher BMR compared to older adults, and males often have a higher BMR due to more lean body mass. In contrast, a restrictive diet can actually lower the BMR as the body adapts to conserve energy.
Exercise is a well-known method for increasing BMR. Both anaerobic exercise like strength training and aerobic activities can build muscle and raise the metabolic rate, even when at rest. Additionally, exposure to cold temperatures can temporarily elevate BMR.