Metabolic Age: What It Is And How To Improve It
The metabolic age represents the real state of health of our organism and does not necessarily coincide with the biological age, on the contrary, it can be significantly different.
Sometimes we look in the mirror and look much larger than we actually are, but we do little or nothing about it. Perhaps we are convinced that we have done everything to improve our metabolic age , when in reality there are other very simple strategies to put into practice.
On the other hand, it happens to everyone to find old school friends after years and notice that they have not changed at all, on the contrary, they maintain the same jovial spirit as always and the same freshness.
Then one wonders: how is it possible that for some the years do not pass? The answer lies precisely in the concept of metabolic age. Read on to learn more!
How to calculate metabolic age?
Health experts usually calculate the biological age of patients through a medical evaluation.
We recommend that you consult your doctor and do not rely solely on the gym instructors who offer the metabolic age calculation service.
In reality you too can make this calculation, in an approximate way, taking into account the following data:
- Age
- Height
- Waist circumference
- Weight and muscle mass index
Once this data is collected, you can use an online program to calculate your metabolic age. Be careful though! These are approximate calculations, only the doctor can give you a certain and reliable answer.
Programs that calculate metabolic age compare a person’s basal metabolic rate with an average value that corresponds to people of the same age and similar physical condition.
What is basal metabolic rate?
Basal metabolism is the energy expenditure of our body at rest. It is directly related to the calories we need to consume to sustain this energy expenditure.
“We eat exactly the same things, but I get fat for both of us”: many people make this comment comparing themselves to others and theirs is not just a feeling. This happens because they have a different basal metabolic rate.
There are people who digest faster than others and their energy consumption is higher. Therefore, those with a higher muscle mass index consume more energy and this increases metabolism.
What factors affect metabolic age?
- Age
- Hormones
- Musculature
- Genetic factors
- Nutrition and metabolism
- Diseases of the thyroid gland
- Frequency with which sports activity is practiced
All of these factors can affect metabolic age, but they are no excuse not to improve it if that’s what you need.
Why is it useful to know your metabolic age?
Knowing your metabolic age is a way to keep your health under control. Make sure that it matches or is below the biological age.
Knowing what physical condition your body is in will help you:
- Improve your condition and physical appearance
- Plan future actions to improve metabolism
- Know your daily calorie consumption to keep you fit
- Take the reins of your life to stay healthy longer
- Prevent possible diseases caused by overweight problems or muscle loss
Is it possible to reduce the metabolic age?
The answer is yes. The first step is to make the decision to improve. For the good health of the body, some changes in terms of habits are necessary.
Willpower is a key factor in this regard. The body rejuvenation program includes three core aspects that are easy to improve in no time.
1. Physical activity
Exercising every day is a good way to promote metabolism and muscle development, as well as increase energy consumption.
A physical activity session of at least 30 minutes a day reduces metabolic age and gives you a fresher look.
Also, you burn calories by doing sports. It is important to go for a walk, do aerobic exercise or weight lifting.
2. Healthy diet
Forget stir-fries and junk food. Include healthy foods in your diet, such as vegetables, lean meats, grains, and proteins.
Also try to always respect the same meal times and not to skip them for any reason. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and improve your metabolism.
3. Sleep well
The body needs its hours of rest in order to function properly. Some tips to follow for optimal rest and quality sleep are:
- Take a hot bath or shower
- Drink a warm tea before bed
- Relax your mind through reading
- Practice yoga that induces relaxation, then induces sleep
If you improve these three aspects of your daily life, the changes will be noticed quickly. Your body will begin to look more youthful and your health will improve dramatically.
