Image by Freepik
Following on from the newsletter “ Fat Belly” We need to understand our Metabolism and what happens when our Metabolism is out of balance. The first step is to understand what is meant by metabolism. We have all heard people talk about having a “Fast Metabolism” or a “Slow Metabolism” - but what is “Metabolism”.
Our Metabolism is made up of the chemical processes that occur within us to maintain our life. The conversion of food into energy, the synthesis and breakdown of molecules, and the elimination of waste products.
Metabolism converts the energy stored in the food we eat into a usable form. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the energy currency of the body and is required for various cellular processes.
We can synthesise proteins, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules necessary for growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues.
We can breakdown complex molecules into simpler ones. This process releases energy that can be used for cellular activities. The breakdown of glucose through cellular respiration produces ATP.
Our metabolism helps regulate the rate of biochemical reactions in the body. Enzymes play a crucial role in this regulation by speeding up or slowing down specific reactions as needed.
When we talk about having a fast or slow metabolism - what does this mean? There are several factors that can influence our metabolism, including our genetics, age, sex, body composition, and activity level. Some of us may have a naturally faster or slower metabolic rate, which can impact how efficiently we burn calories and maintain our weight.
It's important to note that while metabolism plays a significant role in weight management, it is not the sole determinant. Other factors such as overall calorie intake, physical activity, and hormonal balance will also contribute to weight gain or loss.
What can we do to maintain a healthy metabolism. We need to adopt a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, manage stress levels, get adequate sleep, breathe correctly and stay hydrated. The same variables that support our overall health support our “Metabolic Health” It’s not rocket science and there are no short cuts. Maintaining “Metabolic Health” is fundamental to maintaining our overall health.
In next weeks Newsletter I’ll talk about “Metabolic Syndrome” - what are the consequences of having a “Metabolism” that is out of balance.