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Metabolism Paradox

If you have made some lifestyle changes to lose unhealthy weight, you may wonder why weight loss seemed rapid at first but then started to slow down. This is partly because your metabolism was adapted to your heavier body mass and when that mass reduced, so did your metabolism.

One of the most unfair realities after weight loss is the reduction in metabolism. Someone who has reduced their weight from 250lbs to 180lbs will have a lower basal metabolic rate than someone who has always been 180lbs.

Here are some ways you can improve your metabolic rate:

1. Get stronger – weight training builds muscle and the more muscle you have the higher your body’s energy demand (metabolism)
2. Get moving – Interestingly, exercise is better for keeping weight off than for losing it. During a weight loss phase, instead of joining aerobics or cross-fit classes, you can focus on movement like walking breaks, taking the stairs, or dancing.
3. Get your protein – Getting enough protein in your diet will not only help you maintain (or even gain) muscle but can also protect you from a reduction in metabolism. Maintaining muscle mass and digesting protein requires a lot of energy from your diet.

Losing weight can be challenging to begin with and your biological processes after weight loss can make maintenance equally challenging. Speak to the Live Well team at Pharmasave Summerland about how you can make the most of your metabolism.

Dan Cassidy – Nutritional Product Advisor