As you age the inevitable happens, your metabolism slows. I was always one of those people who could eat whatever I liked with minimal consequence…until about 35. People would always warn me it would catch up with me. Turns out it was my feeling ill, and dealing with multiple inflammatory and autoimmune conditions that made me improve my diet- long before I felt my metabolism slow. That being said, now I really do notice when I am having an indulgent day. it usually shows up a couple days later as me feeling a little more bloated and my pants being a little tighter.

The key thing is I don’t stress about it. I now know that it won’t derail me, and a few days back on track has me better in no time. At 44, I care less now about the numbers on the scale and more so about how I feel. But I also know that the key is not to let some momentary splurges (that re totally worth it btw! live, life is short) turn into a bender!  That being said, there are things you can do to get your metabolism firing on all cylinders.

1. Get Spicy

If you want to ramp your metabolism, consider adding some spicy curries to your dinner rotation. Chili peppers contain a substance called capsaicin which can boost your metabolism by around 8%. That said, nutritionist Emma Cronin warns that this strategy isn’t for everyone, as spicy food can aggravate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

2. Sleep More

We’re officially giving you permission to nab a few extra hours of sleep! If you’re not already getting enough shut-eye, improving your sleep habits could be the key to speeding up your metabolism. Lack of sleep can negatively affect metabolism and lead to increased blood sugar levels and insulin resistance.  What happens is it boosts hunger hormone ghrelin and reduces the fullness hormone leptin which could explain why improved sleep has also been found to reduce the intake of carbs and fats compared to periods of sleep deprivation, leading to weight loss.

3. Take a Cold Shower

Yes, we know it’s uncomfortable. But research shows that taking an ice-cold shower can help kickstart your metabolism. As your body has to work hard to generate more heat (which is what causes you to shiver), it increases your metabolic rate. But that’s not all! Cold showers have also been known to cause hormonal changes that trigger the production of brown fat — ie. the fat that burns calories to produce heat. Plus, it’s a super refreshing way to start your morning, once you get over the initial shock!

4. Green Tea…It Isn’t a Myth

It’s no secret that green tea has dozens of health benefits. But did you know it can boost your metabolism, too? “There are some studies which show that green tea can raise metabolism by up to 5% as it helps convert some of the fat stored in your body into free fatty acids, which can increase fat burning,” says nutritionist Emma Cronin. Another study revealed that 4 cups per day resulted in a significant reduction in weight, waist circumference and blood pressure amongst diabetics. 

5. Up your protein

By far one of the most effective ways to stoke your metabolism is to ensure you’re eating enough protein with every meal. Increasing protein intake to 20-30% of your daily calorie intake can assist in protecting your muscle stores and fat-free mass. This keeps your metabolism high, increases the thermic effect of food, and keeps hunger at bay to prevent cravings and bad snacking that can occur after the initial weight loss.”

Bonus tip! Try adding a metabolism boosting supplement

You’ve long known I am a lover of Sakara and all that they do, but this is now their best-selling product and believe me it works! It fires up your metabolism, stabilizes blood sugar, and eliminates bloat. What I love its it tastes like chocolate, I can add it to my morning coffee, or make a yummy 3pm hot cocoa to tame my sugar demon. It also tastes great in smoothies. I can attest to the results, after a month my stomach was flatter and I noticed I was reaching for less sweets. It’s the perfect remedy for metabolic slowdown caused by age, diet, stress. It restores a healthy metabolism to experience weight loss, improved mental clarity and sustained energy. I SWEAR by it so much I would never miss a day so I have it on subscription now to be sure I never run out! Try it for 20% off with the code XOHEATHERE.

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