Metabolism (also known as basal metabolism) is the set of chemical reactions that allow us to obtain energy from all the foods we eat daily. It basically consists of the amount of energy consumed by an individual in a state of rest.
Causes of slow metabolism
- Hypothyroidism: it becomes one of the most common causes. If the thyroid gland does not work properly (gland that regulates both metabolism and caloric expenditure) it causes the appearance of a slow metabolism, and consequently the appearance of overweight. The solution is to take the medication that our doctor has prescribed, given that it is a reversible medical situation, and that then allows the metabolism to normalize.
- Food intolerances and allergies: these are causes that are generally unknown. But the truth is that this type of intolerances and allergies cause poor digestion of food, causing a slow metabolism.
- Other non-organic causes: there are also other causes, considered non-organic, that can cause the appearance of a slow metabolism. The most common are eating too fast, not practicing physical exercise and drinking little or no water.
Consequences of slow metabolism
When the person has a slow metabolism, it is usual for their body to burn very little fat, so the most direct consequence is that it is stored in their body in a much higher proportion than normal.
Is it possible to change the slow metabolism?
Although in a certain sense it is quite difficult to lose weight when the person has a slow metabolism, following a proper diet to lose weight little by little and the practice of daily physical exercise translates into one of the best solutions to change the metabolism slow.
- To achieve this, it is possible to accelerate the slow metabolism by following the following guidelines:
Practice high intensity physical exercise daily, for at least 30 minutes each day.
Increase your muscle mass, which helps you burn many more calories than fat.
Eat 5 or 6 meals a day.
Certain foods, such as citrus fruits, dairy products, and caffeine-rich beverages help speed up metabolism.