3 easy ways to kickstart your metabolism
Posted on August 19 2019
There are some things about your metabolism you can’t change. After all, there’s not much you can do about your age or genetics. However, it’s not just about winning the genetic lottery. There are still ways you can boost your metabolism and optimise how your body uses food for fuel. Here are three simple steps you can take to shift your metabolism up a gear.
Don’t crash
If you’re trying to lose weight, it’s tempting to cut calories. However, if you deprive your body of food, it can go into what’s sometimes called ‘hibernation mode’. This is where your body burns less energy in order to conserve its stores, essentially putting the brakes on your metabolism. You could also end up burning fewer calories when you exercise. So, it’s key to find the right calorie level for your body, even if you’re tempted to skimp on food to push off the pounds. Eating enough throughout the day keeps your body satisfied and your metabolism right on track.
Stay hydrated
It sounds simple to drink enough water, but in reality, it can easily slip your mind. Every single one of your cells uses water to regulate temperature and ensure optimal performance, so it’s safe to say it’s a major part of your health. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that drinking just half a litre of water can increase metabolic rates by 30% in healthy men and women.1 Even mild dehydration can slow down your metabolism, so upping your water intake is key to keep your body going.
Mix things up
Sometimes it’s tempting to stick to what you know. But it’s better if you don’t eat the same thing day in, day out. Research shows that the more varied your diet, the lower your odds are of having metabolic syndrome symptoms (as long as your diet is healthy, too).2 So swapping your meals up won’t only keep things interesting in the kitchen, but also benefit your metabolism.
The same goes for your exercise routine. It’s not just about how much you exercise, but also what activity you’re doing Instead of spending all your time on the treadmill, try working weights into your gym routine. Muscle uses up more energy than fat, so building your strength can benefit your metabolism. More muscle means a higher resting metabolic rate, so you burn more calories even when resting.
What to remember
A healthy body is a priority for most of us. Your metabolism is a big part of this, impacting your appetite, weight and energy levels. Although your gender and age influence how fast your metabolism works, so does your lifestyle. By making small changes, such as what you fuel your body with, you can work your way to a better metabolism.
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