Everyone wants to know how to increase their metabolism to lose weight but first let’s understand what is metabolism. Metabolism is the process by which our bodies convert the food and drinks we consume into energy for the functioning of our bodies.
Our body needs energy for performing basic functions like repairing of cells, breathing, blood circulation and so on. The number of calories your body uses to carry out these basic functions is known as Basal Metabolic Rate or Metabolism.
Metabolism is dependent on several factors like:-
- Age
- Gender
- Physical Activity
- Hormone function
- Body Size
Blaming your metabolism for gaining weight wouldn’t be right. The fact is that the calories you consume are greater than the calories burned which lead to weight gain. People who have fast metabolism are probably just more physically active. Therefore, to increase your metabolism increase your physical activity.
These 3 physical activities would be effective for increasing metabolism: –
- Aerobic Exercise- This type of exercise is the most effective way to burn calories therefore include activities like walking, cycling, swimming 30 minutes daily. To lose weight you need to exercise 150 minutes/week.
- Strength Training- Now comes strength training. You will be glad to know that muscles burn more calories than fat, hence increase your muscle mass by strength training.
- Lifestyle Modifications- Change your lifestyle, instead of using lift climb a flight of stairs; walk and talk; park your car far away from your workplace and walk down to your office and so on. Be physically active.
There is no miracle pill or a single food which can fasten your metabolism rather being physically active will help you with dietary modifications.
Author
Garima Kapoor
Clinical Nutritionist and Diabetes Educator
InstaGram – nutritionistgarimakapoor
