Metabolism Myths and Tips [part 2]

  Following last week’s post, we have been considering ways that we can optimize our metabolic rate and ensure that we are efficiently and effectively burning calories. First, let’s focus on what we are consuming, and changes we can make to our diet.

• We have heard this first tip over and over again, but the truth is this: It is important to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Our cells require water for the metabolic processes to occur. If you are dehydrated, your metabolism will not be able to remain at its normal rate. Avoid this by drinking at least 2 L or.8 cups (1 cup = 8 ounces) of water each day.

• Eat Breakfast. While sleeping, your metabolism slows down, and eating boosts metabolic rate. So eating soon after you wake up will help you start your inner engine running. 

• Once you have a healthy breakfast, you may notice that you feel hungrier sooner than usual. This is actually a good thing! After approximately 3 hours of fasting, the metabolism begins to slow down. Eating meals and snacks frequently throughout the day keeps the metabolism active. So, it is ok, and in fact recommended, that you eat frequently (have smaller meals 5 – 6 times a day). 

• Wondering what snacks to reach for? Choose high-fibre, high-protein snacks like low-fat cheese, fibre crackers, fruits, veggies, and yogurt. Think of snacking as fuel for your body - eat foods that work for you, not against you.
  

• Consume more protein. Protein takes 25% more energy to digest than carbohydrates and fat. When protein is consumed, the metabolism is forced to speed up in order to provide the extra energy needed for protein digestion. Sounds good to us!

• While it may seem wise to avoid eating in order to lose weight, be warned - starvation & crash diets will sabotage your metabolism! Starving DOES NOT help you lose weight. Consuming less than 1200 calories per day will slow the metabolism causing the body to enter the starvation mode. During this time, the body tries to conserve energy by decreasing the metabolic rate.

Are you guilty of not drinking enough water? Or skipping meals? Let's make an effort to take these simple tips and apply them to our diet choices - your metabolism will thank you! Next week, we will see if there are any lifestyle choices that can also help effect our metabolic rate. 

Have a great weekend!