| The last few weeks, we’ve shared some reasons why our metabolism may slow down as we age (and how to prevent it!). You can read those here: How everyday activity affects metabolic rate. How much muscle we lose after age 30 (eek!) – and how to slow the loss. This week, we’re looking at the last major cause: Cellular Process Slow Downs. This is just a fancy way to say: the natural aging process, in general. As we get older, the actual process of metabolism in your cells slows down or becomes less efficient. There isn’t a lot we can do about this – but here’s some good news: While these slowdowns do happen, studies show they have a minor impact compared with lower activity and muscle mass! In other words, the ‘natural’ aging process CAN dramatically be altered by things that ARE in our control. |
| → The takeaway: To offset the metabolic slowdown, concentrate on living a healthy lifestyle, one that includes a good dose of daily activity partnered with muscle-building exercises like weight lifting. |
| → BONUS takeaway: Make sure you eat enough protein. As we get older, we often tend to eat less protein. Protein is the most thermogenic of all the macronutritents (carbs, protein, fat). This means you burn more calories digesting protein than any other macro. A diet consistent in high quality animal and plant protein will absolutely work in your metabolic favor. Aim for a 0.75 – 1.0 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight. For most people, that takes some serious intention. We have a post All About Protein, chock full of recipes and ways to increase your intake. Actions you take today can have a BIG impact on your life into the future. If you’d like some guidance about putting these takeaways into action, here are a few ways we can help… Check out VALEO / NUTRITION and establish sustainable healthy eating habits Check out SEMI-PRIVATE TRAINING to receive a personal workout plan and a Coach.* Check out a CLASS-ONLY MEMBERSHIP to join our larger group HIIT classes* *FREE MONTH with annual membership (woot-woot!) Peace, Love and Muscles, Jess + Team Valeo |