5 Important Steps to Optimize Your Metabolism

If you ask your trainer or healthcare professional what one of the best ways to reduce body fat and improve your musculature is, their answer would be improved metabolism. But what is metabolism and why is it so important to keep our body fit? The experts at Hippo Pharmacy have created this guide that helps you understand all that you need to about metabolism.

What is Metabolism?

In the most basic sense, metabolism is your body’s ability to convert food into energy. The metabolism of your body at rest is defined as Basal Metabolic Rate. It is a measure of how many calories your body needs to function throughout a day. Metabolism is influenced by several factors including age, gender, genetics, lifestyle, and activity levels. The reason why high BMR is ideal is that it burns a lot more calories making losing weight a lot easier.

Turbocharging Your Metabolism

Opt for a Balanced Diet

One of the easiest and best ways to improve your metabolism is to work on creating a balanced meal plan for your requirements. It is important here not to be swayed by the latest ‘fad diets’ that people are talking about. The general rule of thumb is to avoid sugars and focus on protein and fiber-rich foods.

Include Strength Training

Another way to improve your basal metabolism is to build more muscle. Muscles take in more energy from the body than fat stores, so they are a great way to increase your metabolism. Opting for resistance or strength training can help you build lean muscle. To maximize your overall musculature, focus on compound exercise movements like squats and deadlifts.

Quality Sleep Is Vital

The least talked about metabolism booster is proper sleep. The role quality sleep plays for improving your metabolism simply cannot be overstated. On an average, you should be looking to get at least eight hours of sleep. If you find that you’re not able to sleep easily, there are a few things that you can do. Limit screen time just before bed and have a bedtime routine at approximately the same time every night.

Drink Enough Water

Like sleep, hydration is another aspect of healthy living that people tend to forget. Drinking enough water throughout the day has several benefits which might not be apparent. Water helps transport various minerals and vitamins throughout the body and also helps achieve satiety after a meal. Cold water can slightly boost metabolism but if you prefer warm water, don’t worry too much about it. Sodas and other sugary drinks can be counterproductive so avoid them at all costs.

Keep Calm and Don’t Stress

Stress buildup is probably one of the main causes of the lower metabolism of most people today. It is important to practice mindfulness and manage your stress at work or in other parts of your life. Focus on relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing that can have a positive impact on your mind. Regular physical activity is a great way to let off some steam. If you’re feeling overwhelmed at any point in time, don’t be afraid to speak to someone who can help or even a professional.

Bonus Tips

Opt for Smaller and Frequent Meals

Portion control is an integral part of boosting metabolism and so is frequency. Experts have suggested that smaller meals can have less of an insulin spike to your body and provide steady energy throughout the day. Focus on nutrient-dense snacks that aren’t sugary or rich in saturated fats.

Increase Protein Intake

The more protein your body has, the quicker and more efficiently your body can repair damaged tissues and muscles. Protein rich meals also have the effect of increasing the thermic effect of food (TEF) which is the the energy it takes for food to be digested. Foods like chicken, fish, and tofu have high protein content which also keeps you full for longer.

Reduce the Time You Sit

Work is inevitable and you need to earn a living but if you want to improve your metabolism, ensure that you don’t sit all the time. Get up and walk around every hour or during breaks to give your metabolism a boost. A standing desk is a worthy investment if possible at your workplace.

It is important to remember that boosting metabolism is simple. All you need to do is eat right and ensure that your body has enough exercise. For more information about the subject, visit Hippo Pharmacy or get in touch with us, and we will help you with what you need!