What is Metabolic health?
Understanding my metabolic age really helped provide valuable insights into my overall health and fitness that i never even knew of until about two years ago. I stepped on a machine in the gym which measured all sorts of things such as my weight, water mass, muscle mass, bone health and so on and although i know that this may not be totally accurate, it was a huge switch up for me and i always believe that what you can measure, you can improve.
Metabolic age is a term used in fitness to measure how fast or slow our metabolism is compared to others of the same age. Many of us remember a time in our lives, probably our teens and twenties where we could quite literally eat anything we want and gain hardly any weight. This all comes down to the speed which our bodies metabolize food which is completely different for everyone.
Unlike your weight or BMI, metabolic age considers your body’s energy efficiency which offers a more complete view of your overall health. Knowing your metabolic age can motivate you to adopt healthier habits such as improving your diet, increasing physical practices and managing stress. If you have a higher metabolic age than your current age, this can be an early warning sign to take action before more serious metabolic disorders have a chance of appearing later in life.
How to Improve Your Metabolic Age
Improving your metabolic age involves making lifestyle changes that enhance your body’s metabolic efficiency. Here are some things to consider -
Build Muscle Mass: Muscle tissue burns more calories at rest than fat tissue. Incorporating strength training into your fitness routine can help increase your muscle mass and lower your metabolic age.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid processed foods and excessive sugar, which can negatively impact your metabolism.
Stay Active: Regular physical activity boosts your metabolism and helps maintain a healthy weight. Aim for a mix of aerobic exercises and strength training.
Prioritize Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for metabolic health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support your body’s recovery and energy balance.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt your metabolism and lead to weight gain. Keep up with practices such as Meditation, Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi or a hobby! Anything that grounds you and makes you feel safe and present.
Metabolic age is more than just a number; it is an indicator of your body’s overall health and efficiency. By understanding and improving your metabolic age, you can take proactive steps towards a healthier, more vibrant life. Always remember, small changes in your daily habits can lead to significant improvements in your metabolic health over time so that you stay energized, motivated and strong late into your life!
I hope you enjoyed reading this weeks blog post. Zoe X
