Does your metabolism really slow as you age?

Weight gain can't be blamed entirely on getting older... lifestyle choices are significant too.

- By CAMILLA FOSTER

MANY of us attribute gradual weight gain in middle age and beyond to a slow metabolism, but to what extent is this assumption true?

Here Mr Matyas Fehervari, consultant bariatric surgeon at Nuffield Health, helps demystify exactly what a metabolism is, how it can change with age and has also identified some key ways we can maintain a healthy metabolism as we get older.

What is a metabolic rate?

“Metabolism refers to the chemical processes that keep our bodies functioning - from converting food into energy to repairing cells and supporting organ function,” says Mr Fehervari. “The metabolic rate is the amount of energy your body uses to maintain these vital processes.”

What are some misconceptions about metabolism?

“One of the biggest myths is that people with a “fast” metabolism can eat whatever they like without gaining weight,” says Mr Fehervari. “In reality, differences between individuals are usually modest.”

Another common misconception is that metabolism alone determines someone's body weight.