Making efficient use of your natural energy can help you stay in great shape.
Simply put, metabolism is the rate at which we burn energy from food. As we age, metabolism slows and for most of us that translates into weight gain as we become less efficient at burning energy. But there are ways to defy the decline by increasing your energy so you feel like exercising. This, in turn, will help prevent weight gain and even obesity, with its attendant health risks like Insulin Resistance, which underlies conditions such as PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), Diabetes and the cardiovascular disorder called Metabolic Syndrome.
Building up your muscles is important for the efficient burning of body fat. Strengthening your arms and legs with gentle weight training at least twice a week will increase your metabolism, which stays pumped up for many hours after a workout. Always consult a doctor if you have concerns about beginning a new exercise regime.
Keep on the move with at least 30-60 minutes of exercise a minimum three days a week. Walking and swimming are healthy activities. So, too, are jogging, cycling and aerobics.
Don’t starve yourself in the hope of losing weight. If you think of each cell of the body as like a flashlight bulb, each cell burns less brightly if it doesn’t receive enough fuel in the form of food. Recent research has shown that eating smaller meals every 3-4 hours aids metabolism and, consequently, PCOS weight loss.
Avoid stress if you can because it activates the release of cortisol, a natural steroid that slows metabolism and can cause PCOS weight gain, particularly around the stomach. Green tea is relaxing and stimulates metabolism longer and more efficiently than coffee.
Quit using sugar, which throws your metabolic switch into fat storage mode, according to nutritionists. They suggest a predominately low glycemic index diet, which comprises foods that, unlike sugars, are broken down gradually to help maintain a balanced blood sugar level.
On a final note, you’re in luck if you like food that’s hot, as in “spicy.” A number of Indian, Thai and Mexican dishes make use of hot peppers, which, studies suggest, give a big boost to metabolism.
Next Steps
- Take the PCOS Quiz! Get your score and assess your hormone health risks.
- Join our Facebook Sisterhood Group Pose your questions to this group of like-minded women. Get the answers to your questions and the support you need.
- Checkout the Hormone Reset. Guided Practices to eliminate anxiety, lose weight and boost energy.
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