Metabolism: What It Is, How It Works & Disorders and 1 super Tip

Struggling With Your Metabolism? Here’s What You Need to Know

Have you ever felt like no matter what you eat or how much you exercise, your weight just won’t budge? You’re not alone. Metabolism plays a crucial role in how our bodies process energy, and for many people, it feels like it’s working against them. But what if I told you that metabolism isn’t just about burning calories—it’s about your entire body’s energy system? Let’s break it down.

What Is Metabolism, Really?

Metabolism is the process by which your body converts food into energy. It’s not just about burning calories; it’s a complex system that involves hormones, enzymes, and chemical reactions to keep you alive and functioning.

The Three Main Components of Metabolism:

1. Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): The energy your body uses at rest to maintain essential functions like breathing and circulation. This accounts for 60-75% of your total energy expenditure.
2. Thermic Effect of Food (TEF): The energy required to digest, absorb, and store food. Proteins have the highest thermic effect, meaning they burn more calories during digestion.
3. Physical Activity: The most variable factor, depending on how active you are. This includes exercise and even small movements like fidgeting.

How Metabolism Works (And Why It Slows Down)

Metabolism isn’t static. It adapts based on your age, diet, hormones, and lifestyle. Here are some key factors that impact metabolic speed:

• Age: After 30, metabolism naturally slows by 1-2% per decade due to muscle loss and hormonal changes.
• Muscle Mass: Muscle burns more calories than fat. People with higher muscle mass have a naturally higher metabolism.
• Hormones: Thyroid function, insulin levels, and stress hormones like cortisol all influence metabolism.
• Sleep: Poor sleep can reduce metabolic efficiency and lead to weight gain.
• Dieting: Extreme calorie restriction slows metabolism as the body goes into “survival mode,” burning fewer calories.

Metabolic Disorders: When Things Go Wrong

Sometimes, metabolic issues are more than just bad habits—they can be caused by medical conditions. Some common metabolic disorders include:

1. Hypothyroidism

• A condition where the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to a sluggish metabolism.
• Symptoms: Fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance.
• Treatment: Medication (levothyroxine) and dietary adjustments.

2. Metabolic Syndrome

• A group of conditions including high blood pressure, insulin resistance, and excess abdominal fat.
• Symptoms: Increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.
• Treatment: Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise) and medication if necessary.

3. Diabetes (Type 2)

• The body becomes resistant to insulin, causing high blood sugar levels.
• Symptoms: Increased hunger, thirst, and frequent urination.
• Treatment: Blood sugar control through diet, exercise, and medication.

How to Boost Your Metabolism Naturally

If you feel like your metabolism is working against you, there are ways to give it a push in the right direction:

1. Build More Muscle

• Strength training increases muscle mass, which boosts metabolism even at rest.
• Studies show that people with higher muscle mass burn up to 10% more calories daily.

2. Eat Enough Protein

• Protein increases TEF (Thermic Effect of Food), meaning your body burns more calories digesting it.
• Aim for 0.7 to 1.0 grams of protein per pound of body weight daily.

3. Stay Hydrated

• Drinking 500ml of water can increase metabolic rate by 30% for an hour.
• Cold water boosts the effect as your body uses energy to heat it up.

4. Prioritize Sleep

• Sleep deprivation can reduce metabolic efficiency by 5-10% and increase hunger hormones.
• Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.

5. Move More Throughout the Day

• Non-exercise activity (like walking, standing, and fidgeting) can burn an extra 300-500 calories daily.

Metabolism Myths You Need to Stop Believing

❌ Myth 1: Eating Late at Night Slows Metabolism

• Your total calorie intake matters more than meal timing.

❌ Myth 2: Drinking Coffee Will Burn Fat Instantly

• Caffeine can boost metabolism by 3-11%, but it’s not a magic solution. And on this subjectwe have a great tip for you! An innovative caffeine-based product that can help a lot in your process of accelerating your metabolism. See full review here or go to the official website.

❌ Myth 3: Starving Yourself Speeds Up Weight Loss

• Eating too little slows metabolism and leads to muscle loss.

Mastering Your Metabolism

Metabolism isn’t just about weight loss—it’s about energy, health, and longevity. By making small, science-backed changes to your routine, you can improve metabolic function and feel more energized every day.

If you’re struggling with weight loss or suspect a metabolic disorder, consult a doctor or registered dietitian for personalized guidance.

You can see this articles:

How to Boost Your Metabolism Fast?

How Weight Loss Can Dramatically Improve Sleep Apnea – The Science You Need to Know

See you!!