Getting in shape with metabolism

Can the rate at which your body burns calories or breaks down food into energy determine how many extra kilos you are going to shed or gain?

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Metabolism is intrinsic to life's sustenance. Dr. Kharb says these chemical reactions occur in your body's cells every second, adding that the mechanisms enable you to breathe, move, and heal. Several cultivated healthy habits can enhance metabolism, say doctors. And muscles are of prime importance. Muscles burn more calories than fat, even while at rest. The more muscle in the body, the higher is the metabolic rate. Thus, strength training and resistance exercises to help build and maintain muscle are important to boost metabolism, suggests Dr. Kaimal.

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) exercise should also be included in the workout regime. It boosts metabolism both during and after the workout. Cardio exercises like running, swimming, cycling, or skipping burn calories and increase energy use. Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), like walking or standing, contribute further. These activities are important for people who cannot undertake intense exercise.

Another aspect is eating enough protein, which needs more energy to digest, and can temporarily raise metabolism through the thermic effect of food. Staying well-hydrated is also important, and so is managing stress, and avoiding long-term calorie restriction. "Even minor dehydration might impair your metabolism," says Dr. Kharb.