An efficient metabolism lets you convert more calories into energy. An inefficient metabolism can turn many of those calories into stored fat. While diet and exercise do play a part (even the fastest metabolism can’t hide the effects of 5 years of eating cake and chips) there are people whose metabolism are more sluggish and need a bit of a boost. Here are some tips.
Signs of a poor metabolism
Signs of a slow metabolism would be mental sluggishness, fast fatigability, easily feels cold, easy weight gain inspite of constant dieting, dry skin, constipation, slow pulse rate and low blood pressure.
Factors that affect metabolism
Age and gender are factors in metabolism (men have a generally faster metabolism because they have less body fat percentage).
But diet plays a big role. For example studies show that you can boost metabolism by eating four to six small meals and snacks throughout the day without skipping meals. Think of your body as a fireplace which needs logs every few hours to keep the fire burning. The ‘flame’ or metabolism is constant instead of having to start cold or burn at high temperatures.
Crash diets can also mess up your metabolism. Dropping your calorie intake below 1,000 calories a day will signal your body that you are in starvation mode so that it conserves energy (and stores fat) for possible starvation
Your activity levels affect metabolism. Try to allot time for aerobic exercise at least four to five times a week. Even brisk walking for at least half an hour a day can help burn calories. Housework like cleaning, washing or playing with kids also counts as physical activity.
photo from medicmagic.net