When it comes to losing weight, people commonly want to know the simplest and most straightforward way to do so - and there is no shortage of fad diets or diet trends claiming to have the secret to fat loss. Although, no one pays attention to metabolism, which is the process through which the body converts whatever you eat or drink into energy. Metabolism not only converts energy but also provides your body with the fuel it requires to breathe, move, digest food, circulate blood, and repair damaged tissues and cells.
However, it is believed that after the age of 20, your metabolism begins to slow dramatically, making it more difficult to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. So here are five ways to increase your metabolism and keep up with your New Year's resolution.
Stay Hydrated
In today’s fast pace modern life, people often forget to drink water and prefer drinking sugary drinks. These sugary fluids are high in calories and contain toxins that are harmful to r the human body. However, not drinking enough water interferes with the body's optimal detoxification process. According to Medical News Today, water is essential for optimal metabolism and may aid in weight loss. The best way to check your hydration level is to look at your urine colour; if it's clear, you're fine, but if it's yellow, you must drink some water.
Pro Tip
Instead of going for packed liquids, eat fresh fruits and vegetables which are naturally high in water.
Also Read: 7 Healthy Alternative Snack Options To Satisfy Your Munchies
Perform HIIT Workout
As the name implies, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts are short and involve very intense bursts of activity. HIIT workouts are one which helped "Thor" actor Chris Hemsworth go from being "super buffed" to a "lean beast". HIIT workout combines cardio with strength training and short rest periods. The best thing about HIIT workouts is that they can help you burn a lot of calories.
Don't Skip Protein
Protein should be a staple in your diet because protein digestion burns more calories than fat or carbs. Incorporating protein into each meal will not only aid in muscle growth and repair but will also keep you full for longer. As per Healthline, eating more protein can also help to reduce the drop in metabolism that is frequently associated with fat loss.
Prioritise Your Sleep
A good night's sleep not only aids in faster recovery but also aids in hormone production. Getting enough sleep can help prevent unwanted binges that can occur when you are sleep-deprived. Try getting six to eight hours of quality sleep to reduce the increased levels of cortisol: a stress hormone linked to obesity.
Also Read: 5 Common Diet Mistakes To Avoid
Avoid Long Periods Of Dieting
Long-term dieting can have a negative impact on metabolism. People who diet frequently consume fewer calories, making it difficult for their bodies to perform daily tasks. Furthermore, diet food lacks essential vitamins and minerals that are vital for our organ health. The ideal strategy is to consume more seasonal fruits, veggies, and protein while reducing your intake of desserts, simple carbs, and calorie-dense beverages.
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