7 Ways to Speed Up Metabolism For Healthy Weight Loss

Many people mistakenly believe that the metabolism you are born with is what you're stuck with. While it's true that metabolism, or the rate at which we burn calories, slows down as we age, there are still ways to boost it and also counter signs of aging in the process. It is estimated that after the age of 25 or so, the body's metabolic rate declines an approximate five percent each and every decade. Incorporate the following simple but effective ways to naturally speed up your metabolism and boost weight loss.

1. Get regular exercise

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While it seems like a simple solution, most people still don't get enough exercise on a regular basis, and then wonder why they're not burning any calories. Regular activity such as walking, biking, swimming, and hiking will help to speed up your metabolism and keep it at an elevated level even after you are done exercising. It's easy to incorporate mini-workouts into your daily routine by taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or taking a walk instead of using the car. Cleaning the house and doing yard work will also help to increase your metabolic rate.

2. Get adequate sleep

Researchers have discovered that a lack of sleep negatively affects the way our bodies metabolize carbohydrates. This results in glucose intolerance and can possibly lead to a slower metabolism with increased hunger. A lack of sleep also affects our levels of energy throughout the day and can cause us to forgo exercising because we're too tired.

3. Eat regular meals

Skipping meals is perhaps one of the most detrimental things a dieter can do to their body. Contrary to popular belief, skipping meals doesn't merely save calories, it actually decreases metabolism causing you to burn calories at a much slower rate than normal. The body goes into a "starvation" mode to try to protect itself and compensate for the lack of calories and nutrition. The body then tries to hold onto its existing fat supply and will actually burn lean muscle instead.

4. Eat enough protein

Protein is essential for the body to build healthy, strong muscles. A good rule of thumb to follow is about one half gram of protein per pound of body weight. Which means that a 180 pound man would need up to 90 grams of protein per day.

5. Get enough calcium

Research has shown that three to four servings on a daily basis of low-fat dairy products can help the body to burn fat at a faster rate. Calcium, of course, is also essential for healthy bones.

6. Drink green tea

Drinking green tea appears to slightly raise metabolic rates, and also speed up the oxidation of unhealthy fats. Green tea has other health benefits as it contains a significant amount of antioxidants to protect the body from diseases such as cancer and heart ailments.

7. Limit or eliminate alcohol consumption

Scientific studies have shown that after drinking alcohol, the body burns fat at a slower rate than usual. It is believed that alcohol may actually play a role in suppressing the body's natural ability to burn fat.

7 Ways to Speed Up Metabolism For Healthy Weight Loss

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