ABSTRACT
The aim of maintenance metabolism is keeping the body in a good state. A great number of processes are involved: 2 (1) muscle contractions for obtaining and eating food, blood circulation, respiration, and maintenance of muscle tone; (2) active absorption and transport of chemical compounds; (3) production of digestive and other enzymes and of hormones; (4) maintenance of ionic equilibria; (5) repair of damaged or worn tissues, including turnover; (6) regulatory activities, and (7) defense activities against adverse circumstances of physical, microbial, or other origin.
