Why can't I lose weight despite trying to diet? American nutrition experts say: Boosting your metabolic rate opens the door to beauty.
Metabolism is the collective term for all the chemical changes that the body undergoes in order to sustain life. This process allows you to breathe normally, promotes blood flow, enables your brain to function properly, and allows you to obtain the energy you need from food.
Basal metabolic rate (BMR) refers to the amount of energy (calories) the body needs daily to maintain the normal functioning of its organs at rest. Metabolic rate is directly related to body composition. Each pound of fat burns only 2 calories per day, but each pound of lean body mass (body weight minus fat weight) burns 14 calories. A large portion of lean body mass is composed of muscle, so a good way to increase metabolic rate is to build muscle through strength training.
Four common misconceptions and the reasons why you might gain weight instead of losing it:
Myth 1: Metabolism slows down with age.
Fact: Most people gain weight as they age. Many attribute this to a slower metabolic rate, but it's usually because they reduce the frequency or intensity of their exercise, thus reducing their daily energy expenditure. Reduced exercise also leads to decreased muscle mass, directly contributing to a slower metabolic rate and weight gain. This phenomenon is not irreversible; burning calories and maintaining muscle through exercise is a good way to prevent age-related weight gain.
Myth 2: Metabolism is innate and cannot be changed by humans.
Fact: Some people seem to eat all the time but never gain weight, and a significant reason for this is likely their choice of healthy, relatively low-calorie foods. These "lucky ones" often burn more calories daily, possibly because they are sedentary and move around frequently. So, if you're determined to boost your metabolism by building muscle, get moving more every day.
[ Editor's Pick: Losing weight isn't difficult if you choose the right method]
