8 Ways to Rev up Your Metabolism by Meri Raffetto RD

•Sleep!

A 1999 University of Chicago study showed that sleep loss affects the way we metabolize carbohydrates resulting in glucose intolerance and possibly leading to increased hunger and a slowed metabolism. Lack of sleep also can interfere with our energy levels during the day and cause us to skip our exercise routine because we are “too tired”. How often have you told yourself that?

•Decrease Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol may suppress your body’s ability to burn fat. Studies show that when you drink alcohol, your body burns fat more slowly than usual during that particular meal. Watch your alcohol intake.

•Try a cup of Green Tea

A small study showed that green tea appeared to raise metabolic rates and speed up fat oxidation. The calorie losses were small- around 60 calories/day. Green tea also has other health benefits because of its significant antioxidant components. You might as well add a little boost to your metabolism while protecting yourself from heart disease, cancer, and strokes.

•Got calcium?

Recent research shows that calcium -- three or four daily servings of low-fat dairy products -- can help adjust your body's fat-burning machinery. The more calcium in the cells resulted in an increase in fat metabolism.

Beware of Magic Cures

We have all seen the ads for products that increase our metabolism and promise miraculous weight loss. Metabolism boosters and Fat Burners – not only do the people they show us in the testimonials lose weight they also end up with a firm body and a six pack stomach. Can a pill do all this?

Generally, the answer is no. These weight loss pills are often ineffective, and they can also harm us. Many of them contain either human growth hormone, which can lead to joint or heart problems, or epinephrine type ingredients that are correlated with increased blood pressure.

The answer is the good old tried and true: eat a balanced diet that does not exceed your calorie needs, exercise regularly and sleep well. Realize that we may not be able to look 20 again but we certainly can look our best, increase our energy, and enjoy good health at any age.

© Meri Raffetto, 2004

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BIO:

Meri Raffetto is a Registered Dietitian and a recognized professional in the area of nutrition and wellness. She has developed online weight management programs to help people get off of diets and get into way of life. For more information or to sign up for our free newsletter, visit www.reallivingnutrition.com.

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