Boosting Metabolism for Weight Loss

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Boosting Metabolism for Weight Loss

Posted On : Apr-14-2010 | seen (384) times | Article Word Count : 681 |

A slow metabolism is not always the culprit to sudden weight increase. Conversely, a fast metabolism is not a requirement for one to succeed at a weight loss program.

“I’m never going to be skinny. Excess curves run in the family and I have a slow metabolism,” is a common line uttered by people who are forever battling the bulge. The listener might say to himself, “Excuses, excuses!” but there is a real connection between metabolism and weight.

Metabolism is a natural process that involves the conversion of foods that a person eats into nutrients and energy that the body can use. This is a complex process that starts with the digestion of food, which is then broken down into smaller components as it travels through the body. It’s true that your “basal metabolic rate – the energy your body expends at rest – is generally determined by your genetics”, says Samantha Heller, M.S., R,D. of Health magazine. However, a slow metabolism is not always the culprit to sudden weight increase. Conversely, a fast metabolism is not a requirement for one to succeed at a weight loss program, so take heart!

While a person’s metabolism does have some measure of influence over one’s weight and overall energy levels, the main determining factor still lies in the food and beverages consumed, as well as the quality and quantity of physical activity.

The type and amount of food you eat plays a significant role in weight management, no matter what state your metabolism is in. If you’re the type to pile on the food at a buffet and do this regularly, it will take longer than usual for your body to burn the excess calories you need. It’s worse if you had taken high-fat content foods, as those calories will be stored until you decide to put on your running shoes and join the marathon!

This isn’t to say that you should go on a starvation route. The truth is, starving yourself is one way to wreck your metabolism. All nutritionists agree that eating a wholesome breakfast – probably the most missed meal – increases your resting metabolism by 10 percent and reduces the risk of diabetes and obesity. Not fueling your body with food when you are really hungry triggers your body’s survival instinct and conserves your carbohydrate and fat reserves, hence slowing down your metabolism. So don’t be afraid to eat – and choose your food wisely.

As for your inherited body type, count yourself lucky if a generous amount of muscle mass is in the genes, as studies show that people who have more muscle mass burn more calories even during a rested state! But what if everyone in the family tree is predisposed to being round? Don’t be discouraged. Curves – even those in the wrong places – are no reason for you to stay away from working out and developing muscle mass. There are many different exercise programs that cater to people of all ages, shapes and sizes. Consult your physician as to which program best suits you. The key is to take baby steps and not push yourself into a rigorous Body Combat class right away!

And last but not the least, Mother Nature has given us a wonderful extra boost in the form of resveratrol. Tests conducted at Harvard Medical School showed the potential of this plant-derived compound’s ability to increase metabolic burn. The mechanism by which this is achieved is unknown, but data indicates that it may have something to do with mimicking the effects of caloric restriction – a dietary regimen known for boosting endurance and energy levels. Resveratrol can be found in low concentrations in grapes and some berries, but are more concentrated in supplements available in the market. In general, the higher the purity of a resveratrol supplement, the more it contains and the more effective it may be.

In summation, metabolism is not solely responsible nor the be-all-or-end-all for weight loss success. It is just one factor among a host of other factors that are crucial to reaching your ideal weight. As with most health concerns, people are advised to consult their physician first before embarking on a weight loss program.

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<h1>Boosting Metabolism for Weight Loss</h1> Author: <a href='http://www.articleseen.com/profile_Alex Kingsley.aspx'>Alex Kingsley</a> “I’m never going to be skinny. Excess curves run in the family and I have a slow metabolism,” is a common line uttered by people who are forever battling the bulge. The listener might say to himself, “Excuses, excuses!” but there is a real connection between metabolism and weight.

Metabolism is a natural process that involves the conversion of foods that a person eats into nutrients and energy that the body can use. This is a complex process that starts with the digestion of food, which is then broken down into smaller components as it travels through the body. It’s true that your “basal metabolic rate – the energy your body expends at rest – is generally determined by your genetics”, says Samantha Heller, M.S., R,D. of Health magazine. However, a slow metabolism is not always the culprit to sudden weight increase. Conversely, a fast metabolism is not a requirement for one to succeed at a weight loss program, so take heart!

While a person’s metabolism does have some measure of influence over one’s weight and overall energy levels, the main determining factor still lies in the food and beverages consumed, as well as the quality and quantity of physical activity.

The type and amount of food you eat plays a significant role in weight management, no matter what state your metabolism is in. If you’re the type to pile on the food at a buffet and do this regularly, it will take longer than usual for your body to burn the excess calories you need. It’s worse if you had taken high-fat content foods, as those calories will be stored until you decide to put on your running shoes and join the marathon!

This isn’t to say that you should go on a starvation route. The truth is, starving yourself is one way to wreck your metabolism. All nutritionists agree that eating a wholesome breakfast – probably the most missed meal – increases your resting metabolism by 10 percent and reduces the risk of diabetes and obesity. Not fueling your body with food when you are really hungry triggers your body’s survival instinct and conserves your carbohydrate and fat reserves, hence slowing down your metabolism. So don’t be afraid to eat – and choose your food wisely.

As for your inherited body type, count yourself lucky if a generous amount of muscle mass is in the genes, as studies show that people who have more muscle mass burn more calories even during a rested state! But what if everyone in the family tree is predisposed to being round? Don’t be discouraged. Curves – even those in the wrong places – are no reason for you to stay away from working out and developing muscle mass. There are many different exercise programs that cater to people of all ages, shapes and sizes. Consult your physician as to which program best suits you. The key is to take baby steps and not push yourself into a rigorous Body Combat class right away!

And last but not the least, Mother Nature has given us a wonderful extra boost in the form of resveratrol. Tests conducted at Harvard Medical School showed the potential of this plant-derived compound’s ability to increase metabolic burn. The mechanism by which this is achieved is unknown, but data indicates that it may have something to do with mimicking the effects of caloric restriction – a dietary regimen known for boosting endurance and energy levels. Resveratrol can be found in low concentrations in grapes and some berries, but are more concentrated in supplements available in the market. In general, the higher the purity of a resveratrol supplement, the more it contains and the more effective it may be.

In summation, metabolism is not solely responsible nor the be-all-or-end-all for weight loss success. It is just one factor among a host of other factors that are crucial to reaching your ideal weight. As with most health concerns, people are advised to consult their physician first before embarking on a weight loss program.
About the Author: Alex Kingsley is a self-professed advocate of healthy living who recently looked into the potential of <A HREF="http://www.pureandhealthy.com/resveratrol">resveratrol</A>. He does freelance research for the health news field, with a particular interest in all-natural supplements and products. Article Source: <a href='http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Boosting-Metabolism-for-Weight-Loss_16173.aspx'> http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Boosting Metabolism for Weight Loss_16173.aspx</a>

Article Source : http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Boosting Metabolism for Weight Loss_16173.aspx

Author Resource :
Alex Kingsley is a self-professed advocate of healthy living who recently looked into the potential of resveratrol. He does freelance research for the health news field, with a particular interest in all-natural supplements and products.

Keywords : resveratrol,

Category : Health and Fitness : Health and Fitness

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