How to Maximize Your Metabolism

By Alexis Mills

Many people blame their weight gain on the fact that they have a slow metabolism. This common complaint can be fixed, but your metabolism isn't to blame, it's your choices. What really is going on is that your body is likely moving less and eating more. It sounds so simple when it's broken down, but this simple truth is what plays the biggest role in your metabolic rate.

It is true that each of us have our own metabolic rate, which is measured based on how many calories we burn if we just stayed in bed all day, meaning that if we aren't burning off anything from activity that is what our resting metabolic rate is. Luckily, your resting metabolic rate doesn't define your ability to lose body fat and there are ways to overcome slow metabolism.

Lift Weights to Build Muscles 

You can maximize your metabolism by prioritizing strength training over cardio. Lifting weights will help you maintain muscle mass while trying to increase your metabolism.

Increase Non-Exercise Activity 

So, the calories that you burn when you walk around, clean the house, and simply fidget, can make a significant difference. Increasing the amount of activity you do throughout the day instead of just when you exercise will greatly help your metabolism work faster.

Prioritize Eating Enough Protein 

Pick an eating schedule that works for you and make it consistent to help your body work efficiently. Also, make sure you prioritize protein into those meals because it keeps you full and is easy to digest.

Match Your Diet With Your Activity

The eat less, exercise more approach is flawed. Instead you should match your activity with fueling your body with healthy foods that fill you up. Most people who try to diet extensively while also increasing their activity eventually gain back the weight. So, when you exercise less you should also eat less, but if you are exercising more, you can eat more as well.

Get back to the basics when trying to help your metabolism and skip the fat burning supplements. Cut back on excessive cardio; instead, lift weights, eat enough protein, and pick up your non-exercise activity. Eat foods that are healthy and fuel the body to help your metabolic process be as effective as possible. Remember, if you realize your metabolic rate is slower, it is because you are burning fewer calories.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Burlington, Mass.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Burlington, Mass.