How to Raise a Lowered Metabolism

The group of chemical reactions that burn food calories to get energy is known as the metabolism. The speed at which you burn calories is called the basal metabolic rate, or BMR. Your BMR can be slowed due to poor diet, lack of exercise or medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disease. To boost your metabolism, you can make certain changes to trick your body into burning a higher number of calories.

Step 1

Make time to exercise. Spend at least 30 minutes three to five days a week participating in aerobic activities such as swimming, running and cycling.

Step 2

Use resistance exercise machines to work the upper and lower body muscles, since muscle burns more calories than fat cells do. Allow a day of rest between lifting for each muscle group. Strength training should be done a minimum of three days per week.

Step 3

Eat often. According to the Bally Total Fitness website, allowing a long time to pass between eating can slow the metabolism. Instead of three large meals, try to consume four to six smaller meals every three to four hours over the course of the day.

Step 4

Add protein and healthy carbohydrates to your diet. According to the "Today" show website, proteins and healthy carbs can regulate blood sugar and boost energy levels. Choose healthy protein and carb sources such as-lean cuts of beef, trail mix, hummus, low-fat cheese, skinless chicken, turkey breast, fish, beans and nuts.

Step 5

Eat foods that rev your metabolism, says the "Today" website, including those that contain magnesium and the B vitamins. These foods include almonds, cashews, soybeans, whole grain cereals, oatmeal, spinach, kale, broccoli and eggs.

References

Article reviewed by Elizabeth Nickelaid Last updated on: Jan 27, 2010

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