Metabolism is the process of converting food into energy to fuel body functions. While some people blame a lack of weight loss on a slow metabolism, the truth is more likely to be that the calories they are consuming outweigh their body’s needs.
Know Your Metabolism Facts
MYTH: You Have No Control Over Your Metabolic Rate
FACT: You do! Staying fit is the best way as you use more energy when you have greater muscle mass—so exercising can boost your metabolism. Put simply, the more you move about, the more calories you will burn. There are many different ways to burn more calories and you don’t have to be a gym bunny to keep fit. Singapore offers many indoor and outdoor options — see our A-Z for inspiration.
MYTH: Skipping Meals Increases Your Metabolism
FACT: Eating regular meals helps you manage a healthy weight. Our body, especially the brain, requires a regular supply of glucose from food to function effectively. When you go hungry and skip meals, your body may lower the rate at which it burns energy. When you do finally eat, your body will store as much energy as possible in case it is starved again. As well as causing you weight gain, you may also be so hungry that you will also have a tendency to overeat at your next meal. In the long run, such dietary habits of skipping meals may also lead to nutrient deficiencies.
Myth: Certain Foods Increase Metabolism Naturally
FACT: Studies have shown that certain foods like chillies will boost your metabolism, but only for a short period of time—and the temporary lift is insufficient to justify consuming additional calories.
The truth is that only exercise can improve metabolism naturally. Although fruit and vegetables don’t boost metabolism, incorporating more into your diet — particularly those which are high-fibre and low-calorie — will make you feel full longer on fewer calories.
MYTH: Late Night Snacking Slows Down Metabolism
FACT: It doesn’t matter what time you eat; what’s important is how many calories you consume. If your total calorie intake is less than the number of calories you expend, you may lose weight.
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References
- Does Metabolism Matter in Weight Loss? Harvard Health Publishing. (2015, July 16).
Retrieved June 2021 from https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-weight-loss/does-metabolism-matter-in-weight-loss
Contributed By
- Health Promotion Board