Welcome To Dundas West Pharmacy , Your Local Trusted Pharmacy For Medication, Vaccinations & More
pharmasave

Dundas West Pharmacy

Call Now (416) 368 9143

Understanding Why Your Metabolism Slows Down as You Age

Our body is similar to a busy engine room, constantly converting the food we eat into the energy we need to keep going. This process behind the scenes is called metabolism. It’s what helps us manage our weight, keeps our energy levels up, and makes sure everything runs smoothly. But here’s the thing: as the years roll by, many of us notice a change. Our metabolism, once a reliable workhorse, loses some steam. The engine isn’t working as it used to. This makes us wonder what is changing inside our bodies as we age.

 

In this blog, we’ll break down the basics, so you can understand better how your metabolism works, and know why it tends to slow down as we grow older.

 

The Role of Metabolism in the Body

Now you know how the metabolism works, you need to know why is it so important in our body function.

 

Keeping Us Healthy:

  • Metabolism helps the body do its jobs and stay in good shape.
  • It takes care of making and breaking down things our body needs, like nutrients and hormones.
  • Metabolism also cleans out waste to keep everything running smoothly.
 

Helping with Weight:

  • It affects weight by deciding how many calories our body burns.
  • Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the energy needed when we’re resting. Faster metabolism means we burn calories more easily, making it easier to manage or lose weight.
 

Energy and Everything Else:

  • Metabolism is our energy source, breaking down food into energy (ATP).
  • This energy powers all the things our cells do, like moving muscles, keeping the body warm, and making new stuff.
  • Metabolism also decides when to store extra energy as fat for later.
 

In short, metabolism is vital for keeping us well, managing weight, and giving us the energy to do everything our body needs. Keeping our metabolism healthy is key to feeling good overall.

 

Factors Influencing Metabolic Rate

 

Many factors play a role in determining how fast or slow your metabolism works. Such as:

 

  • The Genetic Code: Our genes, inherited from our parents, play a role in determining our metabolic rate. Some people may naturally have a faster or slower metabolism based on their genetic makeup. While genetics play a part, lifestyle factors can still influence overall metabolic health.
 
  • Muscle Matters: Muscles are like the engine of our metabolism; the more muscle we have, the more calories we burn. Regular exercise, especially strength training, helps build and maintain muscle mass, boosting the metabolic rate. As we age, preserving muscle becomes important to prevent a natural decline in metabolism.
 
  • The Activity Factor: How active we are throughout the day influences our metabolic rate. Regular physical activity, such as walking, running, or even daily chores, can increase calorie burning. A more active lifestyle contributes to a healthier metabolism, helping in weight management and overall well-being.
 

Our genetic code sets a baseline, muscle mass influences how many calories we burn, and our level of physical activity directly impacts our metabolic rate. These factors collectively shape our metabolism and can be influenced by lifestyle choices for better overall health.

 

Metabolism and Aging

 

Aging brings changes in our bodies, and one of the noticeable shifts is the gradual slowdown of metabolism. Here is how it impacts you overall:


  • Impact of Hormonal Changes: As we age, hormonal changes occur, such as a decrease in hormones like growth hormone and testosterone. Hormones play a vital role in regulating metabolism. Changes in their levels can lead to a slower metabolic rate. These shifts may contribute to the accumulation of body fat and a decrease in overall energy expenditure.

  • Decreased Muscle Mass: With aging, there is a natural decline in muscle mass, a process known as sarcopenia. Muscle is metabolically active tissue and a reduction in muscle mass leads to a decrease in the basal metabolic rate (BMR). A lower BMR makes it easier to gain weight and can impact overall metabolic health.

  • Lifestyle Factors in the Mix: Lifestyle choices become crucial in influencing metabolism as we age. Regular physical activity, particularly strength training, helps counteract muscle loss and maintain a healthier metabolic rate. Dietary habits also play a role; a balanced diet supports metabolism, while poor nutrition can contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues.
 

In summary, hormonal changes, decreased muscle mass, and lifestyle factors collectively influence how metabolism impacts the body as we age. Taking steps to maintain muscle, stay active, and adopt a healthy lifestyle can mitigate some of the age-related effects on metabolism.

 

Strategies to boost metabolism

 

Now that we’ve talked about how our body changes with age and how it affects metabolism, let’s look at simple ways to keep our metabolism strong and healthy.

  • Exercise Regularly: Include both aerobic exercises (like walking or jogging) and strength training in your routine. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
  • Strength Training: Incorporate activities like weight lifting, resistance exercises, or bodyweight workouts. Start with lighter weights and gradually increase as you get stronger.
  • Consistency is Key: Make exercise a regular habit. Consistency helps in preventing muscle loss and promotes overall metabolic health.

  • Find Activities You Enjoy: Choose activities that you find enjoyable to increase the likelihood of sticking with them. It could be dancing, cycling, gardening, or any form of movement you like.
  • Incorporate Movement Daily: Look for opportunities to be active throughout the day. Take short walks, use stairs instead of elevators, or do quick exercises during breaks.
  • Set Realistic Goals: Start with achievable goals and gradually increase intensity or duration as your fitness level improves.

  • Balanced Meals: Include a mix of lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats in each meal.
  • Regular Eating Schedule: Aim for three main meals and snacks if needed, spaced throughout the day. Avoid skipping meals, as this can slow down metabolism.
  • Hydrate Well: Drink enough water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can impact metabolism. Limit sugary drinks and opt for water or herbal teas.

  • Establish a Sleep Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily to regulate your body’s internal clock.
  • Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment: Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.
  • Limit Stimulants Before Bed: Avoid caffeine and electronics close to bedtime. Create a calming pre-sleep routine, such as reading or gentle stretching.

By gradually incorporating these practices into your lifestyle, you can develop sustainable habits that support a healthy metabolism over the long term. Remember, small, consistent changes often lead to more significant improvements over time.

 

Understanding why your metabolism slows down as you get older is a key element for a healthier life. We talked about things like hormones and muscles playing a role. Now that you know, you can make smart choices to keep your metabolism strong.

 

Just focus on keeping your muscles in good shape, staying active, eating well, and getting good sleep. These simple steps can help you stay energetic and healthy as you age.

Categories :
Share it :

Latest Post

eCare Pharmasave is now available at :

Google-Play-eng.png
App-Store-eng.png
pharmasave

Pharmasave Dundas West is an independently owned and operated pharmacy.  Our pharmacists look forward to sharing their unique healthcare expertise with the community. 

Facebook-f Instagram

Company

Support

Dundas West Pharmacy

Copyright © 2023. Dundas West Pharmacy All rights reserved.