Metabolism is the chemical process by which your body converts food into energy. Through digestion and elimination, your body extracts the nutrients required for essential functions and expels waste materials. Slow metabolism describes a lower level of efficiency in these processes, and contrary to popular belief, is generally not responsible for weight gain.
Basal Metabolic Rate
Your metabolism uses the energy derived from food and drink for both active and essential functions. Even when your body is at rest, your metabolism is constantly at work, performing tasks such as cellular regeneration, blood circulation and fighting off disease and harmful bacteria. The number of calories required to perform these essential functions is called the basal metabolic rate, and its speed depends on your body size, age and sex. The basal metabolic rate varies widely within the population, and changes significantly over the course of your lifespan.
Causes of Slow Metabolism
According to Donald Hensrud, M.D. from the Mayo Clinic, slow metabolism is a rare condition related to endocrine imbalances such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's syndrome. The thyroid gland is responsible for the production of hormones that regulate metabolic processes. Hypothyroidism describes an under-active thyroid, where a slowed metabolic rate typically results in weight gain. Cushing's syndrome is caused by an overexposure to the hormone cortisol, which controls the body's metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
Slow Metabolism and Weight Gain
Slow metabolism is commonly blamed for weight gain and obesity. However, with the exception of rare cases, weight gain results not from metabolic problems but rather from consuming too many calories. Metabolic processes are designed to maintain your body at an ideal weight and supply it with the energy it requires. When you consume calories in excess of what your body needs, the added nutrients are stored as energy for later use, resulting in fat and added pounds.
How to Boost a Slow Metabolism
Nutrition specialist at the Mayo Clinic, Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D., recommends managing weight and improving metabolism by consuming fewer calories and engaging in more physical exercise. Aerobic exercise requires more energy and so burns a greater number of calories, in addition to helping build lean muscle mass. Certain foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables and high-fiber nutrients, facilitate digestion and elimination and help to maintain your ideal body weight.
Cautions
If you are gaining weight for unexplained reasons or are concerned that you have a slow metabolism, consult with your doctor. Your doctor can help you to make lifestyle modifications to benefit your dietary needs, weight and personal medical conditions.
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