Your metabolism is responsible for turning the food you eat into energy
and keeping your body’s
systems performing properly. Having a faster metabolism will burn more
calories, which is important for weight loss. However, there are common
habits that can inadvertently slow your metabolism and prevent you from
reaching your weight loss goals. To keep your metabolism moving along
at a steady clip, avoid the following habits:
FASTING
Some dieters skip meals, thinking the reduced caloric intake will help them shed pounds. However, eating less than you need for basic biological function (around 1,200 calories for the average woman) is detrimental to your metabolism. Fasting essentially sends your body into “starvation mode,” in which it starts to store fat instead of burning it. Not eating enough protein can cause your body to break down calorie-burning muscle tissue for energy.
To maintain a steady metabolism, nutrition experts recommend eating a meal every three to four hours to satiate your appetite and prevent overeating.
EATING PRODUCE WITH PESTICIDES
Certain chemicals in pesticides can disrupt your metabolism and thwart your weight loss efforts. Canadian researchers found that dieters who ate produce containing pesticides noticed an abnormal dip in their metabolism; other studies have suggested that pesticides trigger weight gain. When shopping for produce, look for organic options, which have lower levels of pesticides than non-organic versions.
BEING SEDENTARY
Sitting at a desk for eight hours and not moving major muscle groups during the day can cause the loss of metabolism-boosting muscle mass. Take short, frequent breaks to walk around the office or gently stretch your muscles. Then, hit the gym after work for cardio or strength exercises.
NOT SLEEPING ENOUGH
German and Swedish researchers found that people who sleep less move less. Skimping on sleep will reduce the amount of energy your body uses as it rests. Also, it’s likely that after a night of poor sleep, you’ll crave carbs. Try to get as close to eight hours as you can.
DRINKING ALCOHOL
Drinking slows down the metabolic system because your body must break down alcohol before it can work on the calories you took in that day. Limit yourself to one cocktail (or glass of beer or wine) per day.
AVOIDING DAIRY
Research has shown that calcium, found in dairy products, is key to regulating your fat metabolism. Nutritionists at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville found that a diet high in calcium helps to burn more fat. Drink a glass of milk a day or eat calcium-rich yogurt for breakfast.
DO YOU HAVE A PROBLEM AREA?
Perhaps you are in great overall shape, thanks to diet and exercise, but still struggle with a pesky problem area, like the abdomen, buttocks, hips or thighs. Have you considered surgical treatment? Dr. David Sayah can help to refine your body’s contours through liposuction techniques.
If you would like to learn more about your liposuction options, please book an informational consultation with Dr. Sayah. Call (310) 984-1150 to make your appointment.