Three more metabolism inhibitors
3. Things that slow your metabolism: Skipping breakfast or meals
The timing of when you eat your meals affects weight loss and metabolism. A recent study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology concluded that skipping meals and eating less frequently may result in weight gain.
The findings show that people who eat four or more times a day are 45 per cent less likely to be obese than those who eat three times a day or less. Also, the study shows that skipping breakfast is linked to a greater chance of obesity.
4. Things that slow your metabolism: Big portions of food and drink
North Americans fall prey to portion distortion syndrome. In other words, due to ever increasing portion sizes (from your bagel to your order of French fries or restaurant food serving), we are served more and eat more than we realize. In an attempt to prove this theory (and to test why our Parisian friends are thinner than us), researchers weighed portions at 11 similar restaurants in Paris and Philadelphia and found the following:
-The average portion size in Paris was 25 per cent smaller than in Philadelphia.
-Chinese restaurants in Philadelphia served dishes that were 72 per cent larger than in Parisian Chinese food restaurants.
-A candy bar in Philadelphia was 41 per cent larger than the same candy bar in Paris.
-A soft drink was 53 per cent larger; and A hot dog was 63 per cent larger.
5. Things that slow your metabolism: Inactivity
There is no way around it -- you must move. Exercise is a critical component to raising metabolic function and burning more calories (even at rest!). In fact, for every pound of muscle you carry, your body requires and burns 50 more calories per day to sustain it.
In order to work exercise into your schedule, take a moment to assess what you think will work for your timeline and lifestyle. Time of year (i.e. winter vs. summer) also affects what type of exercise you would like to do. In short, the best type or exercise is the one that you will enjoy -- and do.
Take-home point: You CAN boost your metabolism
Don't be fooled when it comes to your metabolism. By following the nutrition tips outlined above, you can rev up your metabolic engine and lose those excess stubborn pounds for good!
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