Metabolism is the term used to describe the chemical processes which go on inside your body, in order to keep you alive and your organs functioning. These processes, which include breathing, repairing cells and digesting food, require energy. The minimum amount of energy a person needs for this to happen is known as the basal metabolic rate (BMR). A slow metabolism is better described as a low BMR.
Your body size, age, sex, and genes all play a role in how fast or slow your metabolism is.
Those who have more muscle than fat, for instance, will have a faster metabolism.
While your metabolism may depend on the aforementioned factors, there are ways which are thought to help speed up metabolic rates.
And, according to some research, this could aid weight loss.
However, the NHS website states that sometimes a person gaining weight is due to themselves overeating, rather than their metabolism playing a part.
If you do want to boost your metabolic rate, how can you do this?
Health and fitness researchers from Vivotion.com have taken a look at simple ways in which you can increase the speed of your metabolism.
This includes drinking cold water.
According to studies, consuming 500ml could increase your resting metabolism by 10 to 30 per cent per hour.
Another tip from Vivotion.com is to ensure that you don’t skip meals.
Similarly, eating five small meals a day, rather than three larger ones, could prove to be beneficial.
Eating spicy foods and getting a good night’s sleep are also thought to mean you may avoid a slower metabolism.
Switching your use of cooking fats to coconut oil is also thought to have weight loss benefits.
Upping your intake of protein to the higher end of the recommended range could see you boost your metabolism for a few hours.
Meanwhile, making sure you get regular exercise is also important if you’re trying to lose weight.
If you’re nervous to head to the gym, following this free exercise plan which helps to burn hundreds of calories may be worth a shot.