The third reason is shocking!
A slow metabolism can make it difficult for your body to burn calories. A slower metabolism leads to more fat being stored and makes it harder to lose weight.
It may be because some people are able to eat whatever they want without gaining any weight while others must watch their calorie intake and struggle to lose weight.
Your metabolism could be slow for several reasons. Here are five of the most common and how you can speed it up.
- You Are Dehydrated
Your body will try to conserve every drop of water you consume. All of your metabolism will slow down to ensure that you do not use too much water.
It’s not just about being stranded in the desert for days without water. A slower metabolism can be caused by even mild dehydration.
Drinking more water each day will increase your metabolism, helping you to lose weight or maintain your current weight.
- You Are Too Stressed
Stress is a heavy burden on your body. Stress can affect your mental health, as well as disrupting many body functions.
Cortisol is one of the hormones that your body releases during times of stress. It can interfere with your body’s ability to use insulin. It is more difficult to regulate blood sugar and fat storage.
You can reduce stress by using relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation and deep breathing. If your stress is too much or you’re struggling to cope with it, you may want to talk to a professional.
- You can overcome your genes
Genes seem to influence your metabolic rate. You may have a slower metabolism if your parents or grandparent did. Even if you inherit this predisposition to being overweight, it doesn’t mean that you will be forever.
Lifestyle choices are likely to have a greater impact on your metabolism than genes. There’s an epigenetic saying: “Genes load the guns, but lifestyle pulls them.”
Your lifestyle will determine if you trigger your genetic predisposition to certain diseases.
Even if a slow metabolic rate runs in your family, a regular exercise routine, a healthy diet and stress management can help you avoid it.
- Your Room Is Too Hot
The metabolism is a process that generates heat. As food is digested and broken down, you can feel the warmth in your stomach.
Your body’s metabolic processes may slow down if your temperature is too high.
Keep your metabolism working optimally by keeping your room cool. A temperature of 66-69 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly at night, is ideal.
- You aren’t sleeping enough
While sleeping, your digestive system continues to work. It digests the food that you ate during the day and absorbs the nutrients. It also synthesizes new cells.
Your metabolism could slow down if you don’t get enough high-quality sleep. Lack of sleep can lead to weight gain and a slower metabolic rate.
Establish a regular schedule for sleep and adhere to it as closely as you can. Make sure your bedroom is dark, cool and quiet. Avoid using screens during the hours before bedtime.
