The 5 Not-So-Hidden Secrets to Metabolic Mastery

Written by Jamie, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

The holidays are in full swing and it seems like all we can think about is our metabolism.

Is it working fast enough, is it burning those calories, and is it making maximum use of all that good nutrition that we’re trying so hard to make part of our daily diet?

Better yet, what is metabolism and how do we take control of it?

The term “metabolism” is commonly used to refer to the break-down of food and its transformation into energy.

Metabolism: The Not-So-Hidden Secrets

Mastering our metabolism is a complicated process. It’s not just about genetics, lifestyle and exercise, but also about how hormones and other factors help or hinder metabolic machinery.

Many of us want to lose weight, look slim and feel healthy. If that’s our goal, then we need to dial up our metabolic switch.

Anyone who has ever battled the bulge, yet remains stubbornly overweight, may think they are forever stuck with a slow metabolism, but that is not so.

A slow metabolism can be revved up, and here's where to start.

1. Eat Smart Calories

Surprisingly, eating too little can slow metabolism to a snail’s pace. Burning fewer calories is the body’s way of conserving energy.

Although you shouldn’t skip meals or go hungry, you do need to cut down to lose weight. Low glycemic, high protein (LGHP) eating enables you to eat more while weighing less.

First, let go of high-calorie, low-nutrition, deep-fried, fatty and sugary foods. For most people, keeping unhealthy foods in the diet doesn't work well in the long run. Real change is needed to hang onto the good results you want.

Stick with nutrient-dense, high-fiber foods that satisfy the appetite, like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Protein sources can include seeds, nuts, lentils and beans; lean meats; healthy fish; plus low-fat dairy and eggs.

LGHP foods can have a notable effect on metabolism — and without the chore of counting calories!

Luckily, Almased is the ideal LGHP meal replacement and food supplement. It not only provides a full 27 grams of protein per serving but also nearly 15 grams of essential amino acids!

2. Enjoy Breakfast

According to one study from the University of Worcester, increasing protein intake for breakfast is vital for energy (blood glucose) balancing and, in the long term, could be especially useful in the prevention of metabolic disorders.

Eating more protein, overall, can increase the metabolic rate by 15 to 30 percent, which can boost the feeling of fullness, making us less likely to overeat. Protein also helps safeguard lean muscle while the body burns off extra fat.

The unique protein formula in Almased is created to fit the amino acid profile the human body needs. Just one Almased breakfast smoothie can guarantee that you’re getting the protein you need.

3. Walk More

And if walking is painful sometimes, do chair exercises. The point is, move your body. Many health problems can arise from just being sedentary.

If you’re not into pumping iron, start with a short walk and work up to a lengthier stroll. The basic formula is 30 minutes of physical activity, 3 to 5 times per week.

But don’t over-exercise. Excessive, especially extreme, exercise increases levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. Repeated elevation of cortisol can lead to weight gain and visceral fat storage.

4. Reduce Stress

According to Psychology Today, chronic stress and body fat are part of a feedback loop that slows metabolism.

So, reduce stress by taking a long walk, meditating, practicing deep breathing, chatting with friends, reading some good books or even taking a nap.

You know what works for you, just be sure to do it!

5. Sleep Better

Speaking of stress reduction, a big part of that is getting all the sleep you need. Poor quality and insufficient sleep can mess with hunger hormones, and scientific evidence shows that poor sleep contributes to obesity.

But it’s even more than that. Lack of quality sleep interferes with metabolic functioning and raises the risk of disease. It doesn’t take long, either.

One study revealed that even a single night of partial sleep deprivation increased insulin sensitivity in healthy subjects.

The good news is that losing weight can help you sleep better. There are many shake and smoothie recipes from Almased that may be among the best solutions for both weight loss and a good night’s sleep.

How to Burn Fat

Almased’s fat-burning advantage comes from its low glycemic, high protein formula. In fact, Almased’s LGHP eating plan supports healthy blood sugar levels, allowing stores of unwanted belly fat to be more easily jettisoned.

After the first day of drinking Almased, the basal metabolic rate can increase and stay up when consumed daily.

In addition to weight loss and improved healthy blood sugar, the diabetic-friendly benefits are many:

Increases metabolism naturally, reduces cravings and appetite.
Supports healthy blood sugar levels.
Helps to burn stored fat and promote weight loss.
Promotes greater mental clarity and prolonged mental focus.
Can improve hair, skin and nails.
Enhances energy levels, sleep, and mood.
Adds to overall health and sense of well-being.
Assists weight loss once the diet is over.

In just a few weeks of enjoying Almased smoothies, will you miss eating unhealthy foods more than you’ll miss all the weight you’ve lost?

Probably not, especially now that you know the not-so-hidden secrets to metabolic mastery!