Metabolism is referred to as the body's engine as it provides energy for essential bodily functions from breathing to digestion. Metabolism is the biochemical process that helps your food convert into energy. However, poor lifestyle habits and other factors hamper metabolism leading to low energy levels.
To gain the lost energy back, it is crucial to know about the bad habits and factors that are leading to the loss of energy. Here are some bad habits that we often neglect and lower our metabolism.
Lack Of Sun Exposure
Our free, abundant and major source of vitamin D, the sun, is an important element to boost metabolism. Vitamin D plays a vital role in improving metabolism. Study says, Light exposure is closely linked to sleep–wake regulation, activity and eating patterns, body temperature, and energy metabolism. Disruptions to these areas due to light are linked to metabolic abnormalities such as an increased risk of obesity and diabetes. Research has revealed that various properties of light influence metabolism.
Over Consumption Of Junk Food
Obnoxious eating habits and high junk food intake are the leading causes of obesity, diabetes and heart related problems. Glorifying trying fancy dishes loaded with cheese, refined sugars and unhealthy fats, in a number of cafes or restaurants you have been to and proudly calling yourself a foodie might get you a good number of likes on social media, but have you wondered what it can do to your metabolism? Sabka metabolism smooth nahi hota, Laxman. Junk and processed foods are heavily loaded with unhealthy fats, preservatives and processed sugar which provide no good nutritional value to your body. These foods usually lead to metabolic dysfunction. Because of its unhealthy content, junk foods take longer to digest giving no nutrients to your body. Eating refined and junk foods can also lead to insulin resistance, the ultimate result of poor metabolism.
Improper Sleep![Sleeplessness]()
Improper amount of sleep can disrupt your metabolism as quality sleep helps in regulating hormones that control hunger and satiety. According to the International Journal Of Endocrinology, “Laboratory studies have clearly shown that sleep deprivation can alter the glucose metabolism and hormones involved in regulating metabolism, that is, decreased leptin levels and increased ghrelin levels.” Insufficient sleep can also result in weight gain which again hampers metabolism.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Studies have shown that people with sedentary lifestyles are at higher risks of developing metabolic syndrome. Lack of exercise and physical activity can lead to obesity, diabetes and heart problems. Regular exercises can help you in enhancing your metabolism and make your body more efficient at burning calories.
Stress
Elevated levels of stress leads to an increase in cortisol in your body. Cortisol is a stress hormone and its increase can lead to increased appetite, cravings for high-calorie foods, and all this can lead to disruption of metabolism. Managing stress is of utmost importance to improve metabolism.
Also read: Boost Your Metabolism with THESE Smart Nutrition Choices
Bottomline
Metabolism being the engine of our body, provides us energy to perform our daily activities. If metabolism slows down, all the energy lowers down with it leaving lethargy for us. Take steps to get rid of the above habits and enhance your metabolism.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. We advise you to connect with your doctor to navigate the health issues you might be experiencing.)