When it comes to weight management, we often blame our metabolism without thinking twice. However, a recent study published in the Science journal found that our metabolism starts slowing down a lot later in life than we earlier thought–think after 60 years of age.
Metabolism is the rate at which your body burns calories for energy. The speed at which this happens depends on a variety of factors including age, sex, body fat per cent, muscle mass, and of course, genetics. While your metabolic age declines post 60, there are a number of things you can do to boost it, thereby increasing the chances of losing weight.
Eat spicy food or include certain supplements in your routine
A slightly strange but science-backed tip to boost metabolic processes. In a 2017 study published in the journal Bioscience Reports, researchers found that capsaicin, a compound found in chilli peppers can help speed up metabolism. Adding capsaicin supplements to your diet can make more of a difference whereas consuming capsaicin foods that have lower amounts of the compound may make lesser of a change.
Drink enough water
A 2011 study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that drinking enough water can temporarily boost metabolism. Drinking 0.5 litres every hour increases resting metabolic rate by 10 to 30 per cent.
Eat at regular times
The body has an internal clock that it relies on for carrying out metabolic processes. Eating at consistent timings may help boost metabolism. If you eat a lot and deprive your body of food for long hours, it will start burning calories more slowly because it doesn’t know when the next meal is coming its way.
Try strength training
Strength training can help build muscle. Think of muscle as a high-maintenance part of your body that requires more energy to store and preserve. Regular exercise can help you build this!
Sit less, stand more
Sitting is the new unhealthy, we’re not the ones saying it, health experts are! A 2005 study published in Science showed that sitting requires lesser calories and is hence unhealthier. Your options? Stand. It burns more calories and is overall a better choice or make it a point to take a short walk every hour or so.