The Low-Down on Metabolism
It's not hard to find an article or blog post about "The Top 5 Foods to Boost Metabolism" that "really work!" Perhaps you've even tried these foods or eat them regularly in the hopes it's doing something to your metabolism. However, I'm going to guess that you haven't exactly felt the pounds fly off, or that you’ve noticed, really, any change at all. So, why do these articles keep popping up?
Well, let's start with some basics: What is metabolism? Put simply, it's the processes in our bodies that utilize, store, and convert the energy we consume through food. Therefore, every step, every heartbeat, and every push-up we do is made possible by our metabolism.
The key here, though, is how metabolism is triggered. You need energy to do everything, right? That includes eating. Yup, metabolism starts when you take a bite of food. It also starts when you exercise. The more your body requires energy, the more energy metabolism deals with (so long as you provide that energy).
What does this mean? Well, all foods technically "boost" metabolism. The best ways to keep your metabolism in tip-top shape is through eating clean whole foods and exercising regularly. But what about the articles and blogs that swear up and down Avocados are the key to eternal life and a metabolism so fast you can eat anything and never gain a pound? Sadly, these claims fall a bit short. What those foods really do, and what the articles should be saying, is they keep your body fueled with clean energy that's nutrient dense and free from inflammatory components like refined sugar, trans fats, and gluten (in certain populations).
So hopefully, next time when you see those articles heaping praise onto Açaí berries, you’ll remember that their supposed effect on your metabolism isn't the benefit everyone should be talking about, but the micronutrients and antioxidants that they contain.
Need help understanding your metabolism or fueling your body properly to continue reaching your goals? Don’t hesitate to reach out or schedule a Nutrition Coaching or Personal Training session with me.
-Kyler | kyler@ballardhealthclub.com
Cert. Nutrition Coach, CPT
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