Optimizing metabolic health is top-of-mind for a growing number of people.
What is metabolic health?
If those values are higher or lower than a given cutoff, its an indicator of poor metabolic function.
How can you tell if you have poor metabolic health?
Its easy to make assumptions about your metabolic health from stepping on a scale.
But theres a reason weightand BMI for that matterare left off of the list above.
Whats the difference between metabolism and metabolic health?
Metabolic health is intricately tied to metabolism.
Metabolism refers to all of the bodily processes that convert the food we eat into energy, says Pasquariello.
The phrase fast metabolism refers to a metabolic system that is very efficient at using energy.
Several factors impact how smoothly metabolic processes run.
Up your weekly vegetable intake
Vegetables are rich in fiber and low in overall calories.
Andeating more vegetables5has continuously been linked to improved metabolic health andblood pressure6.
This doesnt mean you have to forego the favorite parts of your meal.
Pasquariello emphasizes the importance ofaddingveggies to your plate first before giving a different food the boot.
And dont forget to bring the flavor.
Test out new ways of cooking vegetables, too (braising, air-frying, oven-baking, etc.
), and load veggies up with fresh herbs and seasonings, she adds.
Eat for stable blood sugar
Balanced blood sugar levels are critical for metabolic health and function.
And increasing your vegetable intake is a great first step to following a diet that promotesstable blood sugar levels.
Blood sugar levels rise any time you eat carbs.
The goal is to just prevent levels fromspiking quickly and droppingjust as rapidly.
Hitting yourdaily protein goalsmay be especially beneficial for blood sugar balance.
This macronutrient helps to lower blood sugar after you eat andimproves satiety.
Most people will meet their recommended protein intake if they eat25 to 30 grams of proteinover three meals.
These add up and contribute much more to metabolism in the grand scheme of things.
It can also bechallenging to lose weightwhen cortisol levels are high.
Healthfullycoping with stressthrough meditation, yoga, and even therapy can help your metabolism work more efficiently.
FAQs
What are the signs of suboptimal metabolic function?
How do you support metabolic health?
Regular physical activity,especially weight training, is also essential.
What disrupts metabolism?
Certain medical concerns (includingthyroid health) and medications can also impact metabolism.
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