How can one person eat nonstop (it seems) and not gain weight, while another watches carefully and struggles to keep the weight off?  The answer is most likely the difference in metabolism, which includes muscle  mass differences, genetics, age, and activity level.  The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics defines Metabolism as the process by which our bodies convert what we eat into the energy we need to survive and function.

What to Know about your Metabolism for Weight Loss:

• Our metabolism is greatly controlled by genetics, however we can change it by increasing our lean body mass. Remaining active as we age is very important to preserve the lean tissue that we have.  Adding weight training to your routine can help accomplish this.  By adding more muscle, our bodies in turn burn more calories.
• No magic foods can boost metabolism enough to notice.  Some studies have shown a boost from certain foods like chilies and green tea, however this small boost isn’t enough to offset eating extra calories.
• You can have your metabolism measured by a weight loss professional or Registered Dietitian.  This unique number can then be adjusted to your current activity level and will help with a particular calorie range for losing weight.

To learn more about your metabolism and safe weight loss, please visit WeightLossNebraska.com.  Qualified health professionals in our Lincoln, NE and Omaha, NE  clinics can determine a healthy weight loss plan for you.