As we age, our metabolism begins to slow down, and it becomes more difficult to maintain muscle mass, lose weight and keep the weight off. This can contribute to a lot of weight gain, not to mention the toll it takes on your energy level, hormones and overall well being.
Fortunately, keeping up with a consistent exercise plan and a healthy diet keeps your metabolism high. In addition to that, there are a few ways to naturally boost your metabolism and burn fat around the clock.
Eat Enough Calories
Because you need to cut calories to lose weight, it can be easy to overdo it and tank your metabolism. When you eat less than your body needs to function properly, which is around 1,200 calories for most women, your metabolism drops and begins to break down your muscle tissue for energy. Eating too little also puts your body in “starvation mode,” which means it’s conserving all its fat stores and lowering its energy needs to maintain your weight.
When you’re cutting calories, be sure to eat a few nutrient-dense snacks in between meals, around mid-morning and mid-afternoon, to quell hunger and keep your metabolism working hard.
Don’t Skip Breakfast
Eating a healthy breakfast jump-starts your metabolism and keeps your energy level high all day long. That said, eating a bowl of sugary cereal or a few slices of toast doesn’t offer you much nutrition and sets you up for a crash later in the day.
Set aside time in the morning for a nutrient-dense, protein-packed breakfast, such as an omelet with veggies and spices, eggs with a breakfast meat or grain-free protein pancakes that are quick, easy and nutritious.
Increase Your Fiber Intake
Fiber is good for your heart and digestive tract and helps you burn fat naturally by keeping you feeling fuller longer.The recommended fiber intake is 25 grams a day, which can be achieved by eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables with every meal, which also adds some important nutrients for overall health.
Always Eat Proteins
Proteins are the building blocks of muscle, as well as important nutrients for many vital functions within your body, including a healthy metabolism. On top of that, proteins require more energy to digest, which can boost your post-meal calorie burn up to 35%.
To ensure you’re getting enough proteins, add a small serving of lean meat, a few eggs or some nuts to every meal and snack.
Increase Your Iron
Iron is used to carry oxygen to your muscles and burn fat, but many women fall short of the recommended intake and lose stored iron each month with menstruation. Because of this, your iron supply needs to be replenished often to avoid a slow metabolism and lagging energy levels.
Foods like lean meat, shellfish and leafy green vegetables are all packed with iron, so incorporate some into every meal to reach your daily iron needs and boost your metabolism.
Naturally Boost Your Metabolism on the Go with Paleo Power Balls
Eating healthy with a busy lifestyle can be difficult, which can lead to poor choices, low energy and constant hunger. Keeping a few snacks with you when on the go can help, such as Paleo Angel Power Balls. These all-natural, nutritious snack balls are ready to eat and convenient, so you always have a way to naturally boost your metabolism, combat hunger and stick to your diet on the run.
Check out our collection of Paleo Power Balls in a variety of delicious flavors, including Lemon Cream, Matcha Green Tea Latte and Orange Cranberry, and contact us to learn more about these scrumptious snacks!