Metabolism is the number of calories our bodies use each day. A majority of this energy is used to maintain the body's basic functions, such as breathing and processing food. The remainder goes toward supporting physical activity. Your metabolism depends on your age, gender and body composition. Metabolism can be increased by reducing calories and eating smartly as well as by increasing the amount of physical activity you get each day.
How To Rev the Metabolism To Lose Weight
Step 1
Stop skipping meals. According to Fitness Magazine, skipping meals sends your body into conservation mode, meaning it slows down calorie burn to conserve energy. Eating breakfast is particularly important because your body will naturally burn these calories more efficiently than it would during other parts of the day. Don't go too long between meals either, because this will produce the same calorie-preservation effects that skipping meals does. Eat three meals and two small snacks each day to keep your metabolism moving.
Step 2
Incorporate healthy diet changes. Fitness Magazine recommends eating protein at every meal because it requires more calories to digest, it helps build muscle and keeps you full longer than other choices, which will rev metabolism. Protein can be added through lean meats and low-fat dairy products. Adding foods that contain omega-3, such as nuts and salmon, increases satiety and helps you lose weight. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains to keep up your fiber intake, which increases energy and helps you burn fat during exercise. Finally, caffeine in moderation can give you an adrenaline surge to get you through a workout, which will contribute to an increase in metabolism.
Step 3
Exercise smarter. Not only should you exercise more to boost metabolism, but adding intervals also can increase the results. Interval exercises keep your body burning calories even after your workout is finished. In addition, adding weight training to your exercise routine will help your body burn more calories and thereby increase your metabolism, notes Fitness Magazine.
Step 4
Get adequate sleep. Fitness Magazine reports that lack of sleep can increase your appetite, making it difficult to lose weight. Getting seven to eight hours of sleep every night will keep your body burning calories efficiently and help you boost your metabolism for weight loss at the same time.
Tips and Warnings
- Discuss any changes in your workout routine with your doctor. Contacting a nutritionist or dietitian can help you get an idea of what your calorie intake should be each day; either professional can also provide you with meal plans to get you started.
Things You'll Need
- Healthy foods
- Exercise equipment
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