It is hard to keep fit if your metabolism is sluggish, but many people do not understand exactly what it takes to boost metabolism and burn fat quickly and efficiently. In fact, most dieters do exactly the opposite of what they need to do to build muscle and burn fat. In this article, we will share great tips for kicking your metabolism into high gear with protein for maximum weight loss and muscle gain.
Your body needs food to survive. No matter what you are doing, you need energy to burn, even if you are asleep. If your body is not getting enough high quality energy to burn, it will begin to hoard calories in the form of fat. That is why it is extremely counterproductive to follow very low calorie diets or to skip meals. For maximum fat burning, your metabolism needs good sources of high quality lean protein. Some of the best are lean meats, poultry and fish, milk, cheese, yogurt, legumes, eggs, nuts, grains and seed plants.
Your metabolic rate will change as you age or if you develop certain types of illnesses. For example, metabolism tends to slow down as we grow older because muscle mass tends to drop. In this case, it is important to add complex carbohydrates from fresh produce and whole grains to the diet for more available energy while maintaining a good intake of high quality lean protein sources for endurance and muscle building. Some conditions such as hyperthyroid or hypothyroid can also affect metabolism, and you must work with your health care professional to devise just the right diet for you.
For the most part, maintaining a steady metabolic rate is dependent on a balanced whole foods diet coupled with wise muscle-building exercise. Well-toned muscle is extremely efficient at burning calories and fat. This does not mean that you have to be a weight lifter, although light weight work with dumbbells can be extremely effective. Just be sure you move around more and get some good weight-bearing exercise such as walking or step workouts at least three times weekly. One good way to set up your workout is to do weight work and active work on alternating days. Getting light to moderate exercise every day will lower your stress level and further benefit your metabolism. Remember that good rest is also important and be sure to get plenty of sleep and enjoy quality down time.
Make smart choices in foods by always selecting items that are as close to their natural state as possible. Avoid sugary processed foods filled with simple carbohydrates. These are enemies of good metabolism and good health. Instead, eat five or six small meals consisting of fresh, whole foods every day. You will never be hungry and your metabolism will burn along efficiently.
Toss out soft drinks! They are nothing but chemicals and sugar and are very bad for your metabolism and overall health. Instead, drink pure, filtered water and clear teas. Lean toward herbal teas; however, green tea and black tea also have antioxidants and are beneficial. Be sure to filter your own water and carry it with you in a reusable stainless steel canteen or bottle. Water you filter yourself is fresher and of better quality than bottled water. It will save you a fortune and benefit the environment in multiple ways.
When you make wise food choices, eat well, exercise regularly, rest well and stay well hydrated, you can expect your metabolism to perk along efficiently and help you stay slim and healthy. Follow the tips presented here to enjoy steady weight loss and vibrant health!
