Metabolism is directly responsible for weight, which is why a slow metabolism will lead to weight gain or difficulty losing unwanted pounds. After 40, metabolism naturally slows down. In a decade, the average person will suffer a five percent reduction of her metabolic rate. This accounts, at least partially, for the weight gain that comes with aging. Speeding up metabolism after 40 takes some work but it can be done and is well worth the effort.
Step 1
Try natural supplements. Many metabolism booster pills contain dangerous ingredients that may cause heart problems. Try supplements with vitamin B12, folic acid and omega-3 fatty acids. All of these affect metabolism and will also help with pre-menopause symptoms and heart health.
Step 2
Add spicy foods to your diet. Certain foods, such as cayenne and jalapeno peppers, contain capsaicin, a chemical that boosts metabolism and increases calorie burning for up to three hours after you've finished your meal.
Step 3
Eat often. Spacing out your meals too much can lead to cravings and a drop in blood sugar. To keep your glucose steady and make sure your metabolism is working at its maximum capacity, eat small meals every three to four hours, rather than just a couple of big ones each day.
Step 4
Become a regular at the gym. Exercise increases metabolism and can help reduce the chance of other health problems that are common after 40, such as heart disease and osteoporosis. Weight bearing exercises such as jumping, hiking and running, are especially helpful. Strength training helps build muscle, which in turn speeds up metabolism.
Step 5
Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep makes you sluggish and slows down your metabolism to help your body deal with the fatigue. Women over 40 may find that they have more trouble falling and staying sleep because of perimenopause. Meditation, gentle exercise such as yoga or healthy practices such as having a cup of herbal tea after dinner, can help the body relax and help you get more consistent sleep. Aim for eight hours of sleep every night.
Step 6
Eat more protein. Lean protein, such as chicken and fish, takes longer to digest, so your body has to work harder and your metabolism needs to stay up in order to burn it. Also, protein is essential to muscle building, which in turn speeds up metabolism.
Member Comments