“Metabolism" refers to all the chemical reactions taking place in the body to convert or use energy.
A few major examples of metabolism include:

• Breaking down the carbohydrates, proteins and fats in food to release energy.
• Transforming excess nitrogen into waste products excreted in urine.
• Breaking down or converting chemicals into other substances and transporting them inside cells.

Metabolism is an organized but chaotic chemical assembly line. Raw materials, half-finished products, and waste materials are constantly being used, produced, transported, and excreted. The "workers" on the assembly line are enzymes and other proteins that make chemical reactions happen.

Inherited metabolic disorders are genetic conditions that result in metabolism problems. Most people with inherited metabolic disorders have a defective gene that results in an enzyme deficiency. There are hundreds of different genetic metabolic disorders, and their symptoms, treatments, and prognoses vary widely.

Is a metabolic disease the same as a metabolic syndrome?
No. Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar level, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels. When these conditions occur together, they are referred to as ‘metabolic syndrome’ and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Our services are available to adults 18 years and older living in British Columbia and Yukon who have, or are suspected to have, genetic disorders affecting metabolism.

Yes, you need to be referred by a medical doctor licensed in British Columbia.

The Initial visit is two hours long. Follow up visits can last anywhere from 1-2 hours. Follow up visits are arranged as needed.

There is no cost for the clinic appointment.

You will be sent questionnaires before your appointment so that we can learn more about your medical history. We may also ask you to complete some lab tests.

Bring a list of current medications including dosage (or the medications themselves).

A friend or family member is also welcome to accompany you.

Diet therapy is the cornerstone of treatment for many metabolic disorders. Nutrition problems such as the inability to gain weight and swallowing difficulties may be caused by the metabolic condition itself.
At the AMDC, dietitians see patients whose metabolic condition requires nutrition intervention, including diet education and assessment of metabolic and nutritional status with individualized care planning. We do not see patients for basic nutrition counseling such as diabetes, heart health or weight loss. Patients are screened by the Metabolic Team and referred to the dietitian based on diagnosis and/or current health status and symptoms.