How to boost your metabolism. I love reading anything fitness related, articles, magazines; you name it, I’ll read it. So when I see titles like “foods that will boost your metabolism,” of course, I’m there. The problem is that there are so many misconceptions floating around and just like with anything health related it’s not always that simple.
HOW TO BOOST YOUR METABOLISM
What is it? To put it simply, your metabolism is the amount of energy, or calories, that your body needs to survive on a daily basis. All of this happens as a series of chemical reactions in your cells. The good news is that, even though you may have inherited a slow metabolism from one or both of your parents, it doesn’t mean that you are stuck with it. About 70% of what you eat goes to your basic life functions, 20% is the fuel you burn through physical activity and the remaining 10% is for your digestion. Taking this into consideration, you aren’t destined to follow in anyone’s footsteps. You can be in charge of your own destiny.
Eat. Your diet is imperative to having an efficient and healthy metabolism. Let’s just get one thing straight, it’s not about eating one type of food. There is no proof that eating spicy foods, for example, will speed up your metabolism. I understand that it’s tempting to believe this, but speeding up your metabolism isn’t quite that simple. To start, make sure that you aren’t skipping meals. Breakfast really is an important part of your day. Think about it like this, you are breaking your fast, so this is the perfect moment to kickstart your system. Everyone has unique dietary needs, but generally you want to eat healthy 300-400 calorie meals which contain protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats. If you are snacking during the day, opt for vegetables or nuts.
Move. Have a sedentary job? This can be detrimental to your metabolism, even if you exercise regularly. More and more, studies are showing that if you continuously sit for 8 hour workdays, an hour at the gym will not reverse the damage. Make an effort to get up every couple of hours and move around. If you have a desk job, taking even a 5 minute stretch moment helps. That’s not all though as your metabolism will stay in high gear after an intense cardio session and extra muscle (think weight lifting) will help you burn even more calories. Bottom line, exercise has to be a part of your day, and not just something that you do 3 times a week.
Sleep. Your body needs sleep as much as it needs nutrition and physical activity. This is, after all, the time when it heels and rejuvenates When you are lacking in precious sleep, your body produces more cortisol, which in turn stimulates your appetite. As a bonus, when you are rested you will have the energy needed to move.
Unfortunately there are no quick fixes or easy answers, but when you incorporate all of these components, your body will run like a well oiled machine. It’s simply a matter of respecting your body and giving it the nutrition and movement that it needs.
Do you have any tips for boosting your metabolism?
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*images courtesy of Dollar Photo Club
9 Comments
I’ve recently started working out. I try to drink 2-3l of water a day, but boy, it is hard! I have to start eating more healthy, but that will really be a struggle. I don’t have problems with my weight, luckily. I’m doing it to feel better 😉
That’s amazing! The trick is to do it bit by bit. All at once can be really overwhelming. As you keep making those changes it will get easier and easier.
xo
Great tips! I’m currently working on all of these, the good thing is I do have a job where I’m walking around all day, so at least I’m being active! I worry about the day when I’ll have an office job! Great post xx
xbeccabe.blogspot.co.uk
Getting an office job was a huge shock for me so I totally understand! It’s tough to work on them but continuous activity is a must!
xo
I had my Thyroid removed in my 20’s, coupled with slow genetic metabolism – this topic is top of mind daily. Esp now as I sit and write for my work. I wear a Fitbit to remind me to get up every few hours and go for a 15-20 break walk around the block. Oh and watch what I put in my mouth. It really does all count! Happy Day. X
Wow. I have a slow thyroid and although it’s not as serious as yours I’ve been struggling with it as well. I find my Fuel band does the trick for too! Thank you so much for your comment!!!
xo
I notice that you posted the photo of the lemon water above. Is it true that drinking that in the morning is good for your metabolism?
Also what are your thoughts on standing up desks. Do those help, or does it not matter since you’re still sedentary in a way?
All of this being said, i hate being stuck at a desk all day!
XxMO
madame-ostrich.com
It’s good for your digestive system which in turn is good for the metabolism. I think standing desks help but if you can move around every 2 hours or so then that’s even better.
xo