training to lose weight

Increase metabolism

Body metabolism: what it is and what it depends on

In adult humans organs such as liver, brain, heart and kidneys contribute, by themselves, to cover 60% of the energy expenditure associated with basal metabolism.

Muscle mass accounts for 22%, while adipose tissue, while representing 15-20% of body weight, accounts for only 4%.

Unlike fat, muscle is a particularly active tissue from a metabolic point of view, especially when it is maintained in training with daily physical exercise. At the same weight, the muscle consumes far more calories than the fat tissue; for this reason the basal metabolism is lower in women and greater in men.

With age the fat mass tends to increase, regardless of sex; together with the reduction in the level of physical activity, this explains, at least in part, the decline in the metabolic rate associated with aging.

Body metabolism is also influenced by other factors:

  • it is greater in supercharged individuals than in undernourished individuals
  • increases when the weather conditions become prohibitive (too hot or too cold)
  • increases during illnesses

One of the factors that can have the greatest influence on basal metabolism is the body's hormonal balance. The thyroid, a veritable "control unit of our physical boiler", greatly influences the daily energy expenditure. For this reason, the serum levels of these hormones must be taken into consideration if a precise estimate of one's body metabolism is to be obtained.

Increase metabolism

To give an extra edge to a sluggish metabolism it is good practice to include a daily appointment with physical exercise on the agenda, perhaps canceling some dinner or too many lunches. Getting around is really very important, but you need to do it the right way. First of all we must think about having fun, putting in the right commitment but without imposing impossible goals. Secondly, if you do not have a solid motor base behind you, you should rely on the advice of a qualified personal trainer, able to provide important advice on everything that is wellness. To learn more: which sport to lose weight?

To increase the metabolism and gain in well-being and line it is good to observe a rational diet, without denying habits and palate. Reducing the portions and increasing the number of daily meals, adding at least one snack to the three main meals, is the best way to increase a metabolism probably depressed by the continuous succession of last-minute diets. Desserts, alcohol, beverages and various snacks will obviously be limited and replaced with plenty of water, whole grains, fruit and vegetables.

Beyond the simplistic and summary tones of this article, we have prepared a guided tour, which will help you, step by step, to increase your metabolism and to obtain a considerable psychophysical benefit.

basal metabolic rate "Theory and calculation of basal metabolism
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increase metabolism with diet »Dietary tricks and healthy eating