Which of the following is NOT a factor affecting Basal Metabolic Rate?

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) refers to the number of calories the body requires to maintain basic physiological functions while at rest. It is influenced by several physiological and environmental factors.

Height is one factor affecting BMR because, generally, taller individuals have a larger surface area and greater lean body mass, leading to a higher metabolic rate. Age also plays a significant role; as people age, muscle mass tends to decrease, which can reduce BMR. Fever signifies an increase in body temperature due to illness, leading to an increase in metabolic rate as the body works harder to fight infection.

Conversely, dietary habits do not directly influence BMR in the same way the other factors do. While acute changes in diet can impact weight and body composition over time, chronic changes or fluctuations in dietary habits typically affect overall energy balance and not the resting metabolic rate. Thus, it's correct to state that dietary habits are not a direct factor affecting BMR in the short term.