Four Tools to Boost Metabolism at Any Age

As you age, your metabolism slows down. Older people also tend to have less muscle mass than younger people, which also reduces metabolic rate. This is why we encourage patients over age 40 to add light weight-bearing exercise to their fitness routines.

Whether you’re young in age or young-at-heart, there are some simple actions you can take to keep your metabolism motor humming, so you are blasting away calories at the highest rate possible.

Even if you’re already achieved your goal weight since weight loss surgery, you still need to keep that furnace burning in order to burn calories. I’ve outlined the tools below that will give you the biggest metabolism boost:

1) Stress Management

When you’re tense, your body releases cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal system that is linked to weight gain. It can also significantly weaken your immune system and open the door to acute and chronic illnesses.

Turn to regular physical activity, deep breathing, a quiet evening stroll, or professional help from a psychologist or counselor if you are experiencing chronic stress.

2) Quality Sleep

Adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Getting too little shut-eye can inhibit your body’s processes enough to actually offset weight loss. Here’s an example--Do you ever feel hungry (for no reason) when you’re exhausted and reach for the wrong foods to satiate this false hunger?

3) Exercise

Ok, you knew this one was coming…This weapon is key to maintaining and increasing metabolism. Seniors, take note−The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people 65 and older get 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week and perform weight-bearing exercises on all the body’s major muscle groups at least twice a week.

At any age, commit to a 30-minute daily work-out, just like brushing your teeth and eating lunch, into your daily routine.

4) Consume High-Quality Food and Beverages

Eating the right foods−clean proteins, fruits and vegetables−fuels up your metabolism to be firing on all cylinders.

First thing in the morning, charge-up those calorie burners by feeding them a protein and a fruit (think omelette with feta cheese, spinach and veggies and a cup of berries). Eat small meals throughout the day, but stop by around 7 p.m.

Staying hydrated is key to maintaining good health. Keep a glass or refillable water bottle with you throughout the day. You are properly hydrated if your urine is nearly clear.

Other than choosing the right foods to eat and finding spiritual solace in your life, these tools serve as a roadmap to good health, including maintaining a healthy weight.

Best of all, once you’ve adopted these tips, you will look and feel better sooner than you think.

Have traditional diet and exercise programs not worked for you?

For many people, particularly those who are very overweight, standard weight loss programs don’t lead to achieving significant and lasting weight loss. Yo-yo dieting over the years takes a toll on the body and often leads to obesity-related medical problems.

If you would like to learn more about a bariatric weight loss surgery alternative, welcome to Prime Surgicare, a warm and friendly place where you will gain a true partner before, during and after your weight loss journey.

Learn More:

Sign up for one of our live New Patient Seminars held at CentraState Medical Center in Freehold or tune into our Live and Pre-Recorded Webinars from the comfort and privacy of your own home.

Dr. Seun Sowemimo is a board-certified laparoscopic, bariatric and general surgeon, specializing in the treatment of metabolic syndrome (obesity). He is the medical director at Prime Surgicare and co-medical director of Central Jersey Bariatrics, located in Freehold. ‘Dr. Seun’ can be reached at PrimeSurgicare.com or by calling (732) 982-2002.