We have all heard the familiar explanation from a slim friend or celebrity -"I just have a fast metabolism!" - a statement which is frequently equated to genetics, or luck. But for those of us who aren't so lucky in the metabolic lottery, we are left with several questions; is metabolism function genetic? are we stuck with the metabolism that we have? Can we change or affect the way our metabolism works?
In an aim to shed light on this often misunderstood topic, this week's post will focus on metabolism basics.
First, let's make sure we are all on the same page. Metabolism is a process of life-sustaining chemical reactions that take part in the cells of all living organisms allowing them to grow, reproduce, function and adapt to environments. It can also be described as a speed at which your body engine is running.
Basal Metabolic Rate is your body’s basic energy requirements - it is the speed at which your body burns calories to sustain its normal functions and processes.
So, having a fast metabolic rate can be a great helping tool in weight management as it would mean that more calories are burned to sustain the body because its energy requirements are higher than at a slower metabolism.
While individual energy requirements and metabolic function vary from body to body (meaning your naturally slim friend isn't necessarily lying to you) The good news is this: you aren't simply stuck with a sluggish metabolism!
Your metabolism influences your body’s basic energy needs, but it’s your food and beverage intake and physical activity that ultimately determine how much you weigh. Next week we will highlight the simple ways in which we can influence our metabolic function, so be sure to check back!
In the meantime, get to know your body and it's energy needs - without comparing yourself to anybody else! Each body is unique, and our goal should be to learn & understand ours, to keep it healthy & performing at it's best!
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