Boost Your Metabolism

Metabolism is the natural process by which your body converts what you eat and drink into energy. Your metabolism is important because it helps carry out all of your body's daily functions, such as breathing, circulating blood, adjusting hormone levels & repairing cells. Many people believe their metabolism slows as an inevitable consequence of aging, when in reality, good lifestyle choices can keep your metabolism strong & healthy throughout your life.  Here are simple choices you can make to boost your metabolism, plus the most important thing to avoid: EAT BREAKFAST  Going many hours without food in your system makes your body go into "starvation mode" and your metabolism will slow down to conserve energy. STRENGTH TRAIN  Muscle is active tissue, and requires many more calories on a daily basis than fat does. The more muscle on your body, the more calories you burn per day, every day! Even when you're done working out! EAT SMALL & OFTEN Keep your metabolism stimulated by eating small portions throughout the day. Research shows that people who eat every 2 to 3 hours have faster metabolisms than those who eat only two or three meals per day. DRINK WATER Drink at least 8 cups of water daily. All chemical processes in your body require water. Keep yourself hydrated to keep your metabolism working strong.  MOST IMPORTANT THING TO AVOID: YO-YO DIETING When you lose weight quickly, you lose muscle along with fat. When you gain it back, you gain back only fat. With less muscle on your body, you will burn fewer calories every day. If your metabolism has slowed, put into practice lifestyle choices that boost your metabolism and be patient!  It took time to lower your metabolism, so it will take time to speed it up.