Metabolism Boosters and Busters - Part 3

Metabolism Boosters and Busters - Part 3

There are metabolism boosters that can help the body use our calories more efficiently and slow down the aging and disease process. Here’s the good news – people who identify themselves as having a fast metabolism don’t actually differ that much in terms of calorie expenditure compared to those who believe they have a metabolic disadvantage.

The pathways of our metabolism rely heavily upon our nutrient intake. We need various nutrients, like proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and vitamins to produce energy that is then used by the body to make new tissues and proteins.

Weight loss potential decreases when our body is deprived and thinks we are starving through calorie deprivation. Even if we cut calories on purpose and work out more, our body doesn’t know the difference between starvation done on purpose and the kind that ensues from famine. So, the body goes into survival mode when we cut calories too much or diet over and over and tells our metabolic hormones to hold on to every calorie we eat, to ensure survival. Hence, the body lowers metabolism to conserve.

Exercise isn’t necessary for weight loss for the majority of our clients, but that doesn’t mean exercise isn’t important or helpful for weight loss. If we stay active and maintain our muscle mass, our metabolism won’t decline as much as we age. HIIT or Surge is a form of exercise that utilizes intervals that alternate between all-out effort and a short period of rest. It is known for jump starting metabolism.

HIIT/Surge actually helps the body to burn fat for up to 36 hours after your workout is over. It is anaerobic exercise and is different than aerobic, which doesn’t contain a rest cycle and only burns in the moment. Aerobic exercise produces cortisol, and it can actually make weight loss difficult or even cause us to gain. The best part about Surge or HIIT is that it only takes 12-15 minutes three times a week yet provides greater results.

HIIT/Surge actually uses higher levels of oxygen to recover following intense physical activity and burns more fat over the course of the day, builds more muscle and improves metabolic function and insulin resistance.

Start Lifting Weights. It can help increase our metabolic weight because it builds lean muscle mass, which burns more energy than fat. We can do this simply with dumbbells or body resistance moves at home or with equipment at a local gym. Try to do several reps of each muscle area 3-5 days a week.

Add Metabolism Power Foods. Certain foods can help the body expend more energy, because of their thermic effects – meaning the body has to work harder to break it down and metabolize them. They can actually create a warming effect on the body that uses up energy. Spicy food is one such example – things like cayenne pepper, chili and other spicy ingredients contain capsaicin, which heat up the body.

Eating enough protein is also linked to a strong metabolism. When we skip our protein or don’t eat enough, our muscle mass decreases and BMR goes down on our body composition. Wild-caught fish, pastured eggs, and grass-fed beef are simple metabolism boosters that help keep us full longer.

Protein also helps keep energy and blood sugar stable while building lean muscle. It causes our body to use up more energy during digestion than when we eat carbs. Apple Cider Vinegar is also helpful, as it aids in digestion and helps to balance blood sugar.

A strong metabolism is tied to more than a thin body. It is important that we take action to boost it in order to feel and stay young and healthy. It is important for a strong immune system to lower infections and degenerative diseases, fertility and a healthy sex drive, lean muscle mass, brain function, energy and more.