To set the record straight, metabolism and digestion are two different things. Metabolism has to do with processing the food we eat and turning it to energy, while digestion refers to breaking down food for its nutrients.
But why does everyone seem to want a fast metabolism? Easy. Having a fast and effective metabolism ensures that everything you eat becomes energy instead of fat. And the best way to maintain one is—hold your breath for this, ladies—to exercise. But don’t sigh in defeat just yet! Being a couch potato doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re up for metabolic doom. Here are easy and hassle-free ways to get yours going:
#1 Eat a balanced diet
Surprise! For your to body process energy effectively, you have to provide it with something nutritious to grind up. Hence, try to avoid eating too much refined sugar, dairy, and sodium in big amounts and stick to fibrous, starchy, and high-protein things like whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables. Most importantly, make sure to eat just the right amount of healthy food that you need—never less.
#2 Fix your eating schedule
For your metabolism to stabilize, set a proper schedule for each meal. This will give your body a timeframe to follow so it will burn fat instead of storing it for energy in case you don’t eat. Eating a few small meals every few hours is worth a try if you tend to get hungry easily.
#3 Drink green tea
Studies have shown that green tea has wonderful antioxidant properties and can boost one’s metabolism when taken more often. While it’s not necessarily a weight loss aid, certain components of it like catechins (an antioxidant) help lower blood cholesterol and improve blood flow. Start with one cup a day if you’re not used to the taste!
#4 Drink more water
Water can do practically no wrong. Research has found that drinking more water increases our metabolic rate! So stay hydrated to keep your body going and that fat burning.
#5 Do a quick exercise daily
Sorry, there’s just no escaping physical activity for this! Be it walking or doing yoga, doing any sort of physical activity can rev up your system. Lifting weights helps as well, and you can easily do this at home with your own barbells. Every piece of effort counts.
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