We all want a high metabolism to help us fight off unwanted calories so that we can eat what we want and not gain weight. Unfortunately, this is not the norm.
In reality many of us suffer from multiple factors that have lowered our metabolism. But the good news is there are ways to fix it.
It’s a common myth that those with a fast metabolism are just born with it. It is also common thinking that once you get older you are stuck with low metabolism and there is nothing you can do about it.
It’s time to bust these metabolism myths…
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Do You Have High Metabolism or Low Metabolism?
Determining where you fall on the metabolism spectrum can be done by looking at the signs that your body shows you.
Here are a few common traits that are found with people who have a fast metabolism and in turn those with a slow metabolism.
Keep reading to determine your metabolism type.
High Metabolism Signs
Having a high metabolism means your body burns energy from food at a fast rate. Let’s touch on a few fast metabolism symptoms.
People with a fast metabolism can be characterized by their ability to lose weight easily and burn fat. They are able to maintain a healthy muscle mass and appear mentally and physically strong.
Those with a speedy metabolism have mental clarity and sustained energy throughout the day. They are not pestered with things like brain fog and fatigue.
For the most part, having a high metabolism is a great thing. However, there are some people with very fast metabolisms that have problems with gaining weight.
How can you gain weight with a high metabolism?
Gaining weight with a fast metabolism takes planning an effort. Just as if you were trying to lose weight.
It is important that you determine methods to gain healthy weight. Just eating tons of junk food calories isn’t the right choice.
If you have a naturally fast metabolism you should eat at least 3 healthy well-balanced meals a day. You should also include healthy snacks between meals.
Other ways to add on healthy weight is to use free weights and do weight resistance exercise. As well as practice meal planning to ensure that you do not skip any meals.
Low Metabolism Signs
A low or slow metabolism can be caused by many different health issues. Your body will tell you when something is out of whack. All you have to do is recognize the signs.
Here are the major signs that your metabolism has slowed down…
- Weight loss resistance
- Unbalanced blood sugar
- Digestive issues
- Hormonal issues
Have you noticed that no matter how hard you try you just can’t seem to lose weight? You work out and eat right but you still have that tummy that won’t go away. This is a sign that your metabolism is low.
Another sign of a slow metabolism is heavy cravings for sugar and carbs. Your need for snacks is very high and you often have a mid-day crash. These symptoms could mean that your blood sugar is unbalanced.
Gas, bloating, and heartburn are all digestive issues are signs that your metabolism is low. Gut issues are very common and they destructive to your entire body.
Believe it our not a low metabolism can also mess up your hormones. Dry skin, hair loss, and feeling cold all the time are tell tell signs of a slow metabolism.
How to Speed Up Your Metabolism
Right now you might be thinking …. OMG my metabolism is slow!
If so, no worries!
Let’s move on to how to fix a slow metabolism.
With a few lifestyle changes, you can speed up your metabolism and get rid of the bad symptoms that result from a low metabolism. Clean eating results in miraculous changes in the body.
Here are a few tips to get a high metabolism:
Eat Breakfast
A healthy breakfast jump-starts your metabolism and gives you energy all day. Keep in mind that breakfast isn’t a time of day.
The first meal that you eat that “breaks the fast” is considered your breakfast. No matter what time you eat it, make sure your first meal of the day is a healthy meal.
Related Post: 10 Metabolism Boosting Breakfast Foods – Jumpstart Your Day
No Food 3 Hours Before Bed
You want your body to burn fat for energy instead of sugar. One way to accomplish this is to not eat any food at least 3 hours before bed.
This starts your body on the 12-14 hour fast it needs to burn fat as you sleep.
Drink Water
I’m sure you’ve heard that your body needs water. But did you know that drinking 48 oz of cold water can raise resting metabolism by about 50 calories daily?
Being even a little dehydrated can decrease your energy and cause brain fog.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting the right amount of sleep for your body will work wonders in boosting your metabolism. If you are tired all the time, this is a sign that your body needs help. Sleep is important for keeping the body happy and healthy.
Eat Protein Rich Foods
Foods such as almonds, avocados, eggs, chicken, turkey, tuna and greek yogurt are rich in protein and will help raise your metabolism. Research has shown that protein can increase your post-meal calorie burn by as much as 35%
Consider the myths busted. You now know that no matter who you are or what your age is you can have a high metabolism.
You know what to do… get started on the road to feeling better.
Leave a comment and share if you have a high metabolism or a low metabolism based on the signs that your body is showing you.
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Being a Hypothyroid and PCOS fighter, I understand what low metabolism and hormonal imbalance can cause to the body. Eating healthy food, meal planning, regular exercise, good deep sleep ,eating protein rich food all are so important to keep up with normal metabolism. Thanks for reminding.
Heena.
https://travelandhikewithpcos.com
You’re welcome Heena!
Now I am wondering if I really have low metabolism or high metabolism, but I have always thought I have high metabolism. With these signs mentioned, I could assess myself well. 🙂
Glad to help Clyde!
After my third baby I felt like my metabolism slowed way down. Some of these tips I practice but some I wasn’t aware of (like the no eating 3 hrs before bed). I’m excited to try all of them now! Thanks for this post ?
You’re welcome… I’m sure you’ll find what will work well for you.
My metabolism is super slow! I’m going to try to do several of these things, starting with drinking more water and eating more protein.
Hey Tracy, I noticed that mine was on a slow down too. These tips really helped.
Thank you I am really fed with my gaining weight..I am doing yoga daily one hour..
Thank you for your tips..god bless you..
You’re welcome and I know the feeling well. 🙂
Hi Shawn, I have a low metabolism. I have an underactive thyroid plus MS and a heart condition.
I drink plenty of water and eat fruit and vegetables plus lean meats. I am not very active as I’m in a wheelchair. I do sleep a lot as well. Unfortunately I have gained a stone in weight and am struggling to get rid of it. Would the clean living diet help me please
Hi Susan,
You have a very unique situation. I would highly recommend reaching out to your doctor or a certified nutritionist to help you boost your metabolism and get rid of any unwanted weight. A personalized plan for you is going to be your best option. Love & Hugs… Shawn 🙂
Thank you Shawn for your reply, I appreciate your suggestions. Love and hugs Susan xxx ??
You’re welcome 🙂