Metabolism is the chemical processes that occur in your body’s cells to convert food and drink into energy. Metabolism is regulated by specific proteins in the body, and thousands of metabolic reactions occur simultaneously. It is responsible for body functions like breathing, blood circulation and so much more. Things like your size, sex, age, and your genes all have an affect of your metabolism. We already know about ways to boost your metabolism. There are several things that could slow your metabolism. Below are 10 things that could slow down your metabolism.
Not Enough Sleep
Most adults need between 7-9 hours of sleep. Getting some good sleep can help keep your metabolism steady. Tossing and turning night after night makes it hard for your body to use energy. If this continues, obesity and diabetes could be in your future.
Medications
Some drugs can slow down your metabolism. These include many antidepressants and certain antipsychotics doctors use to treat schizophrenia. Many other medications, like those that slow the heart rate, also can have that effect. Let your doctor know if you think your prescriptions might be a problem. There may be something you could take instead.
A lot of Stress
We all know that stress is a killer. When you are in a stressful situation, your body makes a hormone called cortisol. It’s meant to give you a quick boost of energy. But if you’re stuck in a stressed-out zone, the body thinks you still need to fight, so it keeps making cortisol. High levels of this hormone make it harder for your body to use insulin. That puts the brakes on your metabolism and fuels weight gain.
Your Diet
Eating loads of fatty foods like greasy burgers and buttery goodies is never a healthy idea. It changes how your body breaks down foods and nutrients. Your body’s ability to use insulin is affected, too. That’s called insulin resistance, and it’s been linked to obesity and diabetes. Reach for more fruits and vegetables and drink more water. Beans, peppers, and shellfish are good options, too. You may want to cut down on your carbs also. Get your carbs from fruits, vegetables, and grains that are rich in nutrients. Whole wheat flour and sweet potatoes are great choices also.
Your Genes
Metabolism is how your body changes food into energy. If your body is slow at burning calories while you rest or sleep, you probably got that from your parents, through your genes. Since you can’t change your genes, focus on your habits. One of the best ways to pep up your metabolism is to get more exercise. Look for ways to sneak more activity into your day.
Hormones
A shift in your hormones can put the brakes on your body’s energy use. That can make you tired. Some conditions, like an underactive or overactive thyroid and diabetes, are hormonal diseases that affect your metabolism. Stress also releases hormones that can trigger a slow-down. If you have a medical condition, keep up with your treatment. And make it a priority to nip stress in the bud.
Not Enough Water
If you’re not drinking enough water, your metabolism can stall. How about a tall, cool glass of water? Some studies show that it helps the body burn energy and fuels weight loss. At any temperature, water also helps you fill up, so you eat less. Sip it throughout the day. You also can eat more foods that are naturally rich in water, such as watermelon or cucumbers.
Lack of Calcium
Calcium is needed to help strengthen your bones. It’s also a key nutrient for a swift metabolism, among the other positive things it does for your body. Many people don’t get enough of it. There are many delicious options! You can get calcium from milk and dairy products, of course. It’s also in many fortified foods (such as cereals, orange juice, and soy or almond milk), canned salmon, turnip greens, kale, and tofu.
It Could Be Your Home Thermostat
Did you know that keeping your home too warm could affect your health? Room temperatures of 75 degrees keep your body from making brown fat, which is loaded with calorie-burning cells. Turning the thermostat down to 66 degrees before bedtime boosts brown-fat levels. When it’s cold outside, taking regular brisk walks also may do that.
Meal Times
When you eat is as important as what you eat. Skipping meals or grabbing a bite on the go creates social — and metabolic — jet lag. Shifting meal times can wreak havoc with your metabolism and raise your risk for heart disease. Consider a regular mealtime with your family and stick to it.
