Metabolism (Shinchintaisha)

Metabolism (shinchintaisha, 新陳代謝) refers to the series of physiological processes by which a living organism takes in the substances it needs to survive and expels old substances that are no longer needed. These processes include cell regeneration, energy production, and the synthesis and breakdown of nutrients, and they are essential to an organism's growth and health. Metabolism takes place constantly, whether the body is taking in nutrients from food and drink or processing waste products, which makes it a fundamental element of life. A similar mechanism exists in sake brewing: the process in which yeast converts sugar into alcohol can be seen as a part of metabolism.