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When I started learning more about natural ways to boost my metabolism, I learned there are actually signs of a slow metabolism! It is good to know if you have a healthy metabolism or not by knowing these signs:
Are you always Freezing? What’s Your Metabolism Telling You?
I used to be cold All.The.Time. My hands and feet would be freezing and ice to the touch. I would have to carry a sweater around with me even in the summer because I couldn’t tolerate the cold in restaurants. This is not a healthy sign. What’s your metabolism telling you?
What is your metabolism?
Your metabolism is your inner fuel burner. It is a pretty smart mechanism that will adjust based on how much it needs to burn or if it needs to reserve energy. When you are eating the right about of calories and nutrients, your metabolism will be a fire house. However, if you start to reduce your calories or eat low nutrient foods, your metabolism will dial back and slow down. Think about a bear going into hibernation. The bear’s metabolism slows way down to conserve all the energy to make it through the winter. We don’t want to be a bear in hibernation.
Your basal metabolic rate (or BMR) burns 60-75% of the calories you need every day. If you can speed up your metabolism, you can also speed up weight loss.
Is Your Metabolism Frozen?
If you are constantly cold and had poor circulation in your hands and feet, it could be your metabolism telling you to eat.
By reducing your body’s basal temperature, your body reserves energy. You can test your basal body temperature with a simple and cheap thermometer you can pick up at any drug store. To test, you take your temperature as soon as you wake up while still lying down every morning. This is a common practice for women who follow natural birth control options and chart their basal body temperatures.
Ideally, your basal body temperature should be at or above 97.8.
When I was charting my basal body temperature trying to get pregnant, I had some mornings when my temperature would be at 96 something… that is a slow metabolism. I was pretty thin at the time because I was on a caloric restrictive diet trying to sway for a girl.
Metabolism is also important for your health. Life the Natural Way tells us that people with higher metabolism had fewer instances of illness.
Some signs of a slow metabolism include:
Feeling cold
Slow to lose weight
Easy to gain weight
Hair loss
Low libido
Hair loss
Sugar Cravings
Insomnia
Feeling Tired
Low Basal Body Temperature
Dry skin and brittle nails
Actions that Slow Your Metabolism
Lack of sleep
Not eating enough
Over Exercising
Eating low fat
Not eating enough carbs
Being stressed
Being deficient in vitamins and minerals (Iodine, Magnesium, Vitamin B complex and Vitamin D)
How does your Diet affect Your Metabolism?
Your diet can also have a significant impact on how efficiently your metabolism functions. Here’s how your diet affects your metabolism:
1. Caloric Intake: The number of calories you consume directly affects your metabolism. When you eat, your body breaks down the food and uses energy to digest, absorb, and process nutrients. This is known as the thermic effect of food (TEF). Protein-rich foods have a higher TEF compared to carbohydrates and fats, meaning your body burns more calories during digestion. However, consistently consuming excessive calories can lead to weight gain and a slower metabolism over time.
2. Macronutrient Composition: The types and proportions of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) in your diet can influence your metabolism. Protein requires more energy to digest and metabolize compared to carbohydrates and fats. Including an adequate amount of protein in your diet can help boost your metabolism and promote feelings of fullness. Additionally, consuming healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil, can support a healthy metabolism.
3. Meal Frequency and Timing: The frequency and timing of your meals can impact your metabolism. Some studies suggest that spreading your meals throughout the day, rather than consuming large meals infrequently, may help maintain a higher metabolic rate. Additionally, eating breakfast and having regular meals can prevent prolonged periods of fasting, which can slow down your metabolism.
4. Muscle Mass: Your muscle mass plays a crucial role in determining your metabolic rate. Muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue, meaning it burns more calories at rest. Regular exercise, particularly strength training, can help build and maintain muscle mass, which can increase your metabolic rate. Read more about using a Rebounder for Exercise.
5. Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining a healthy metabolism. Water is involved in various metabolic processes, including digestion and nutrient absorption. Dehydration can negatively impact your metabolism and overall energy expenditure. It’s important to note that individual factors, such as genetics and underlying health conditions, can also influence your metabolism. See my favorite keto friendly electrolytes here.
However, adopting a balanced diet that includes adequate protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense foods, combined with regular physical activity, can help support a healthy metabolism and overall well-being.
Are you always freezing? Do you think your metabolism is to blame?
More Posts about Boosting Your Metabolism
7 Ways to Speed Up Your Metabolism
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[…] I shared how your metabolism can be slowed down by your actions and how you eat. Thankfully, your metabolism can also be revved up by some simple changes. I’m going to share […]