Genetics, your body's hormones and your lifestyle choices determine your metabolism, or how fast your body uses energy. Although you have no control over the genes you inherited, you can have your thyroid assessed for dysfunction and you can make improvements in your lifestyle decisions to speed up your metabolism. If your doctor determines that you have a thyroid problem, there are medications that you can take to help improve your thyroid and metabolism.
Step 1
Take levothyroxine, or Synthroid, as directed to speed up your thyroid and metabolism. Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of thyroid hormone that is used to replace low levels of natural thyroid hormone. This medication should be taken with a full glass of water every morning before breakfast. It may take a few weeks for you to notice a change in your metabolism.
Step 2
Reduce the number of calories that you take in, to speed up your metabolism, states MayoClinic.com. Begin with a reduction in the size of food portions that you consume. Instead of eating on a regular-sized plate, you should use a saucer-sized plate to train yourself to eat smaller portions. In addition, choose to eat low-calorie foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean meats.
Step 3
Build muscle to speed your metabolism. Muscle burns more calories at rest than fat, which results in an increase in metabolism. Begin a resistance training program in which you exercise the large muscle groups in your body, such as your thighs, quadriceps, pectorals and abdominal muscles. Perform three sets of 10 pushups, situps, lunges and squats three times per week. As you progress, learn new exercises to incorporate into your regular workout regimen.
Member Comments