The Single Best Way to Boost Your Metabolism
We could all probably use a little boost each day to overcome the seemingly constant energy crisis that we face. Often our engines run low, and we feel sluggish and lethargic. We just can't seem to summon up that 'zip' anymore, or after a certain point during the day. When your metabolism is running low, losing weight can seem nearly impossible. Naturally, attempting to exercise is a far away dream when your slow metabolism seems to weigh more than you do.
Lots of people try using caffeine and stimulants like green coffee or ginseng, which can certainly give your energy levels a lift for the short term. But unfortunately, this is more like borrowed energy, which you will have to pay back later on.
Increase Your Metabolism for Lasting Energy
The absolute best way to boost your metabolism doesn't come inside a pill. And it doesn't depend solely on the food that you eat, though of course, that helps. The best way to boost your metabolism doesn't come from doing a ton of cardio either, though that puts us a little closer to the real answer.
So what is the absolute best way to boost your metabolism and help you burn more calories to lose weight? The answer may surprise you.
Build Muscle.
Yes, it's true. Build muscle. Surprising as that may seem, building muscle is the absolute hands-down best way to boost your metabolism. Muscle tissue is highly metabolically active, and uses a lot of energy, even at rest. When you go through the process of building muscle, you release hormones and chemicals into your system that begin to turn your metabolism around - and these cause your resting metabolic rate (or RMR) to increase better than any pill, diet regimen, or caffeine ever could. When your metabolic rate increases, you burn more calories round-the-clock, even while you are sleeping.
If you build lean muscle, this tissue has the ability to burn a ton of calories - even when you are resting, sitting, or sleeping. Cardio is wonderful for your heart and blood vessels, and you will absolutely burn calories during this type of exercise. But if you also incorporate lifting weights, doing yoga poses for strength building, and other callisthenic exercises like pushups, sit-ups, and lunges, you will begin to build muscle, which is the best way to boost your metabolism.
But Don't Cut Your Calories Down to Nothing
A common mistake that many dieters make is to reduce their calories so low that they no longer consume adequate amounts of protein - which will stop muscle building in its tracks. After that, it's only a matter of time before your metabolism will begin to slow. BistroMD meals contain just the right amount of protein to help you build muscle tissue and boost your metabolism. Not to mention that protein will help you feel fuller and prevent cravings while you are changing your diet.
How to Build Lean Muscle Mass
To build lean muscle, it's important to push yourself a little harder each time you perform exercises like lifting weights or doing pushups or planks. Keep count of how much weight you lift, and how many reps. If you are sore after workout, then you are absolutely going to be building muscle in those sore areas. After your soreness is gone, next time you lift, try to add a few more pounds. If you are holding the plank pose, try holding it for 15 seconds longer the next time you do it.
Tracking your exercise is a great way to ensure you are continuing to build muscle and boost your metabolism. Write down summaries of your workout, or track it on a number of free apps available for your smartphone.
Tracking your diet is also a great way to stay abreast of your protein intake, to ensure that you are able to build muscle and boost your metabolism. Free apps such as My Fitness Pal and are great ways to stay on top of your daily protein needs.
Build a Team of Experts for Support
The bistroMD home delivery weight loss program includes access to our registered dietitians, as well as tips from our fitness expert. Our program was developed by Dr. Caroline Cederquist, MD, to help ensure you are getting just the right amount of protein to help maintain your lean muscle to help you succeed at losing weight at the same time.
