Factors That Affect Metabolism

Metabolism is the body's ability to use food as energy. The rate at which the body uses energy determines the amount of calories needed for one's daily caloric requirement. Knowing how to tap into the power of metabolism can boost health and weight loss. The natural process of aging affects the body's metabolic processes. Daily activities, stress and sleep patterns all contribute to metabolic efficiency. There is a direct relationship between aging and the factors that affect metabolism. Aging is a natural developmental process. It is not reversible. However, the effects of aging can be minimized. Read on for some tips on how to delay age related metabolic slow down.

Your metabolic efficiency is largely influenced by muscle development. Lifting weights to improve muscle tone improves metabolism. It predicts how well you metabolize food, utilize calories and burn body fat. Weight training twice a week is essential to maintain an active metabolism. Walking, jogging and other similar cardio activities work towards improving metabolism. At least 30 minutes of cardio activities per day is needed to reap its benefits. Sleep and rest are essential. It is during rest that muscles repair itself after a workout. Studies also show that people who sleep 7 to 8 hours daily are less likely to develop obesity.

Going on a restrictive diet slows down metabolic activity. When the body perceives hunger it goes into starvation mode. It means that the body tries to conserve whatever energy is available. This results to a slower metabolism. Instead of restricting food, eat small meals 4 to 6 times a day. Try to eat high fiber, nutritious foods. Starting your day with whole grain products and a little protein is a great way to start the day. Minimize high sugar foods and simple carbohydrates. These foods promote fat storage and slow down metabolism.

Water is important in the metabolic processes. It flushes out toxins from the body. It is an essential element in all body processes. Most people drink cool or tap water. The water's temperature determines the amount of calories you lose by drinking it. Cold water forces the body to warm the water to body temperature. This process uses up energy and boosts metabolic activity. It is therefore reasonable that the colder the water, the more calories are utilized. Constant stress is known to increase fat in the belly. Stress promotes the release of cortisol during physical and emotional stress. This steroid hormone is known to slow down metabolism.

The status of your metabolic activity is a product of a variety of factors. Your diet, daily activities and life experiences helped shape what you are now. You cannot undo the past. However, you can work on minimizing its effects on your health. The sooner you start a healthy lifestyle, the better for you. There may be nothing you can do to halt the aging process. You can, however, take steps to delay its progress, starting today.