What is Metabolism?

The questions on your mind now are probably, what is metabolism and what does metabolism mean? We all have our meltdowns when that particular outfit on the rack won't fit, or when the weighing scale reads a number that can cause one to have a stroke, or when clothes don't fit like they used to. We have to stop ourselves and ask that one vital question - am I leading a healthy lifestyle? Being a health junkie, I find myself constantly giving advice to people on how to lose weight, considering that I was about 44 pounds overweight.

You feel a great change in your body taking place; people who see you after months and years, will see that noticeable difference. That is why it is crucial that you get moving, before it's too late. As you get older, your metabolism drops, meaning, your ability to lose weight gradually decreases with age. Remember the age-old saying, 'Time and tide wait for no man'.

Understanding Metabolism

Food is the most important instrument that will help you either lose / gain weight, considering that metabolism rates depend on what you eat. Chemical reactions take place within the body's cells that convert fuel from consumed food, ultimately into energy to do everyday functions like thinking, growing physically, performing household / work activities and so on. Without metabolism, cells wouldn't be kept healthy and functioning.

Enzymes break down proteins from food present in the digestive system. These are then converted into amino acids, fatty acids, carbohydrates and sugar. These are then absorbed into the blood (namely amino and fatty acids) making their way into the cells. Other enzymes then actively control the chemical reactions thus metabolizing the compounds that are the result of the process.

Types of Metabolism

There are two kinds of metabolism, namely catabolism and anabolism.

Catabolism
Also known as destructive metabolism, catabolism produces energy to make the cells active. Carbohydrates and fats are broken down to produce energy. This energy is then released to provide fuel for anabolism (read below). This in turn increases temperature within the body, making muscles contract in being able to make body parts move. Complex chemical units are converted into simple matter - like waste through the skin, lungs and kidneys.

Anabolism
Also known as constructive metabolism, anabolism caters to storing and building. New cells are then formed and energy is stored for later use. This is then converted to large molecules of protein, carbohydrates and fats.

There are many reasons that stunt one's ability to lose weight like genetics, hyperthyroidism, type 1 and 2 diabetes and so on. Make it a point to check your family history, to gauge whether you have problems that hinder the way your body functions. Consult a doctor now if you're unsure of why multiple diet plans and workouts fail to bear fruit for you.

Foods / Habits That Rev Up Metabolism

As a child you may have been pestered day in and day out to drink lots of water. Dietitians say that drinking at least 6 - 8 glasses of water a day can improve not only health, but repair other problems like bad skin (oily / dry / acne prone), hair troubles, increase metabolism, regulate bowel movement, cleanse the body from toxins and so on. Follow this regime, and see a considerable change in body mass and structure.

• Eat fruits and vegetables (because of their high-fiber content).
• Walk long distances for at least a total of 30 minutes in a day (jog every now and then to boost metabolism, stick to walking if too tiresome).
• Drink green tea (known to contain a considerable amount of calorie-burning properties).
• Increase protein intake like fish, white meat (chicken), cereal (fat-free), pulses and so on.
• Occasionally eat spicy food (throw in some hot spices to boost your metabolic rate).
• Substitute regular coffee with black coffee (avoid using cream, sugar or milk).
• Constantly munch on something healthy like nuts (small helpings of peanuts, almonds, groundnuts and cashews - switch to pine nuts, or salt-free pistachios if you'd like; strictly avoid wafers / biscuits).
• Make it a habit to opt for the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Avoid starch and sugar carbohydrates like white bread, sugary items, candy, aerated drinks, potatoes (fried / boiled), pasta and so on (try eating these items during the weekends instead of everyday).
• Eat a good breakfast and lunch; go easy on dinner (make sure you eat two hours before you head to bed, to avoid food from sitting overnight in your belly, causing it to bloat).
• Most importantly, avoid starving yourself.

Be sure to follow these simple steps to get you looking fit. Don't fret if you see minuscule results, remember that all good things come to those who 'weight'. I know how it's made a big difference in my life and now you know what it can do for you too. Have a healthy tomorrow.