Metabolic Weight Loss

The metabolism is the function of breaking down chemical compounds, absorption of what is needed into the body and elimination of waste. When the metabolism is sluggish, you feel fatigue, and it may be very difficult to lose weight. Many factors can affect the metabolism. Stress, a diet high in saturated fats and a lack of fluids can slow down the metabolic rate. The best way to keep the metabolic rate up, is to keep the liver, adrenal glands, intestines and thyroid healthy.

Meals

Eating breakfast kick-starts the metabolism each day. This can be a piece of fruit, cereal or eggs. Any food consumed in the morning will get the metabolism going. Eating breakfast followed by five small meals through the day will make sure your body continues to digest and burn calories all day long. It will keep your blood sugar levels stable and decrease the need to eat at night.

Digestive Enzymes

Ginger, sprouted grains and raw fruit and vegetables all contain digestive enzymes. These digestive enzymes help to digest fats, carbohydrates, protein and lactose, and keep the metabolism operating well as the system digests and eliminates without any problems. Ginger actually helps the body to produce more digestive enzymes, and consumed daily, it can help maintain a healthy digestive system.

Herbs

Many herbs can help to regulate the metabolism. Cayenne pepper is known to speed up the metabolism and cleanse the bowels. Cayenne pepper can be sprinkled on meals throughout the day to encourage and assist with digestion. Dandelion root is known to cleanse the liver. The liver is responsible for the breakdown and processing of fats. Astragalus is also known to speed up the metabolism by toning the adrenal glands. Place 1 tsp of these herbs in a cup of boiled water. Steep for 3 to 5 minutes, strain, then drink. Consume one to three cups daily.

Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland produces a hormone that regulates the metabolism. When the thyroid is under-active, it leads to fatigue as well as weight gain. It makes it very difficult to lose weight. Kelp is high in calcium, potassium and iodine. Iodine is a major component in the thyroid hormone and taking kelp supplements can help to keep the thyroid gland healthy. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

Stress

Stress creates a heavy strain on the entire body. It impacts sleeping patterns and the digestive system. These are two areas that need to be healthy in order to keep a healthy metabolism. The body recuperates and replenishes itself during sleep. More calories are burned during sleep than when generally relaxing, reading or watching television. Stress may also lead to irregular eating patterns, such as under-eating or over-eating, which can affect blood sugar levels and the metabolism.