Weight Loss Through Increased Metabolism

Metabolism is your body's way of producing energy by combining nutrients with oxygen. The energy substance produced is called calories, and are either used by the body during a strenuous activity, or stored as fat for future use. Not everyone has the same metabolism however; and this explains why some people remain thin despite their caloric intake, while others are fat. A number of factors influence a person's metabolism including sex, age, weight, daily amount of activity, and body size and weight. When resting or engaging in normal activity, the body stores more fat, and the body's rate of metabolism slows down. This process can eventually affect the entire body as it results in weight gain, especially in older people. Athletes and those who exercise or "work out" regularly, burn up calories at a much faster pace; and this is one of the reasons they manage to stay slim.

Many experienced athletes know that it's better to eat several meals during the day than one or two large ones. By eating these smaller meals, it reduces the feeling of being hungry. They also know that it is recommended to eat a high energy snack before exercising. Those who do engage in periods of moderate, daily exercise should eat a balance meal or a special high energy snack immediate following an exercise period. A proper 'work out' exercise session helps build up muscle tissue by 'burning up' large quantities of fat. The more 'muscle mass' that is created, the higher the metabolic rate that 'burns' off calories. Naturally, different types of exercise determine how much the body metabolizes energy.

In order to determine the body's normal rate of metabolism, a person is given a metabolism test, where he lies on a flat surface and breathes oxygen through a face mask. The rate of oxygen consumed while the body is at complete rest can determine how much of this energy is converted into calories; and of course, fat.

The best way to increase your body's rate of metabolism is to undertake a moderate exercise program as well as eating a well balanced diet. To help stave off the body's feeling of hunger, small light snacks may be eaten between meals.

A person's glandular activity will also influence weight gain (of loss). Regular medical checkups can help determine if there are any glandular dysfunctions such as from the thyroid gland. Glandular dysfunctions can greatly affect the body's metabolic rate. Certain dietary supplements, available in health and fitness stores, can also help assist the body in increasing metabolism. Before taking them, however, it is a good idea to receive competent medical advice; especially from a personal or family physician who is well acquainted with your personal health history.

The end result of a natural way to increase metabolism is to adhere to the saying by many health and fitness professionals: "burn the fat and feed the muscle".