Does Slow Metabolism Contribute to Increased Fat Rate in the Body?

If you are fat or you have gained pounds, people may tell you that the metabolic rate of your body has diminished. If you are not too much into science, you may think what is metabolism and why it decreases.

Before we move towards understanding metabolism and what causes, slow metabolism, let’s understand if the link between slow metabolism and getting obese is true or not.

Well, the answer to the question is simple. There is no conclusive evidence that slow metabolism and obesity is related. Infact, most scientists believe that slow metabolism is a rare phenomenon and not everyone can get affected. You may get fat and obese due to several reasons like interactions among genetics, your diet, lifestyle, physical activities and several other factors.

What is metabolism?

Metabolism is a process by which our body converts the fuel we take inside our body into energy. Thus, the process in which food and drinks that we consume is converted into energy is called metabolism. Even when you are at rest, your body needs energy for repair and maintenance. Your body also needs energy for breathing, blood circulation, and for the repair of the cells and tissues. Thus, the energy that your body uses to perform these functions is called the Basal Metabolic Rate.

What are the factors that determine Basal Metabolic rate?

Following are the major factors that may determine your basal metabolic rate.

Your body type

Different people have different body size and body composition. If a person weighs more, he/she has more muscle mass and they are capable of burning more calories. Thus, people who weigh more have better chances of losing weight quickly as they have a faster Basal Metabolic Rate. Thus, if you are fat, you have a higher metabolic rate. This proves that the statement that metabolism contributes to fat rate is false.

Sex

Yes, the gender you belong to can also determine your metabolic rate. Men have less body fat and muscle mass when compared to women of the same weight and height. Again, higher muscle mass means that you will be able to burn more calories.

Age

Yes, age can also determine the metabolic rate of your body. When you grow old, the muscle mass of your body decreases. Thus, you lose the capacity to burn more calories.

If not, metabolism, what is the reason behind extra weight and fat rate?

Following are some of the major reasons that lead to extra weight gain:

• Consumption of too many calories
• If you don’t stay active
• Very little physical activity
• Genetics and the family history of being fat
• Medications
• Unhealthy eating habits and lifestyle
• Lack of sleep

If you are worried about slow metabolism, you can contact your doctor or join an online program like Metabolic factor. Certain food choices can impact the rate of metabolism. If you are still skeptical, you can have underlying diseases like hypothyroidism and Polycystic ovary syndrome.

Following are the best ways that can help you get rid of slow metabolism issues:

1. Start the process by measuring the metabolic rate of your body. You can use different apps available online to check the metabolic rate.
2. Try to use food that is rich in fibres.
3. Include seasonal fruits and vegetables in your everyday diet.
4. Try to stay away from saturated fats
5. Try to include large number of lean proteins in your diet
6. Try to maintain the calories in your body by consuming small meals at regular intervals or practicing intermittent fasting.
7. Try to indulge in regular physical exercise

So, instead of worrying about slow metabolic rate, try to stay healthy by eating healthy and regular exercise. Let us know if you want more tips to get rid of slow metabolism.