Metabolism describes the body's ability to convert what you drink and eat into energy, according to the Mayo Clinic. Energy is used for body functions such as repairing cells, breathing and circulating blood. There are several factors that determine your metabolism including your muscle mass, gender and age. Although having a slow metabolism is rare, there are a few changes that may speed up your metabolism and burn more calories.
Step 1
Eat breakfast daily, recommends the Mayo Clinic. Eating breakfast will jump start your metabolism and prevent overeating later in the day. People who skip breakfast change the body's insulin response. This promotes increased fat storage and weight gain.
Step 2
Increase physical activity levels. More physical activity will assist in boosting your metabolism and burning more calories, according to the Mayo Clinic. Get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, recommends the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Step 3
Schedule muscle training sessions. Building muscle will burn more calories all day long. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend strength training at least two days a week. Focus on major muscle groups such as arms, shoulders, back, hips and abdomen for best results. If you aren't sure where to start, check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention free online training clips.
Step 4
Drink coffee to boost metabolism, recommends Women's Health Magazine. A study published by the journal of Physiology and Behavior found that people who drink coffee have a higher average metabolic rate than non-coffee drinkers. Coffee appears to stimulate the central nervous system which may boost metabolism.
Step 5
Consume cold water. The University of Utah found that people who drink eight to 12 glasses of water daily have higher metabolic rates than people who drink only four glasses daily, according to Women's Health Magazine. The body appears to burn calories heating cold water up to body temperature, boosting the metabolic rate.
Tips and Warnings
- Increase calorie burning by choosing high-impact activities. Inline skating, karate, running and swimming at a fast pace will burn calories quickly.
- Purchase dietary supplements carefully. Diet supplements that claim to speed up metabolism aren't tested by the Food and Drug Administration, according to the Mayo Clinic. Talk with your doctor about the potential risk before taking any dietary supplement.
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