Don’t go hungry
To lose weight successfully you must take in fewer calories than you expend. Losing weight by going hungry is almost always counter-productive, by doing so the body reacts by going into energy-saving mode and slows down all metabolic processes thus holding on to every single calorie in order to get what it needs. Nutritional deficiencies may become visible, as a result of the body not obtaining enough nutrients from the reduced supply of food and calories. Certain vitamins and minerals, for example, B6, B12 and zinc, are very important for a well-functioning metabolism*. A successful and healthy diet plan should therefore ensure that the body is receiving all the important nutrients it requires despite being in a calorie deficit and that metabolic activity remains at an optimal level throughout such a diet. Only in this way can successful long-term weight loss be achieved and maintained.
Sufficient protein
If you do not eat enough protein when dieting, you run the risk of losing muscle mass. This is because it is easier for the body to take the energy it requires from the muscles, instead of utilising fat reserves. Less muscle mass however, often means that our metabolic rate slows down even further. This is because muscle cells can effectively mobilise and break down energy-rich substrates (e.g. fats). That is why it is important in any diet to retain muscle mass in order to reduce fat mass and counteract the dreaded yo-yo effect. Consuming foods containing high-quality protein is fundamental to losing weight healthily and sustainably.
More exercise
It is well known that endurance and strength training are good for the body and overall health. Even small increases to physical activity levels can help to improve metabolic function. Any effort to include more exercise in your day will have benefits. Park a little further from the entrance to the supermarket, take the stairs instead of the elevator or go for a short walk around the office during your lunch break. When combined with the nutritional tips above, even a small amount of exercise can have noticeable benefits.
Sufficient sleep
A lack of sleep can negatively affect your hormones and cause stress resulting in a reduction in your metabolic rate. Ensure that you get at least 7-8 hours sleep a night. By doing so you will not only feel more energised and productive during the day, but according to scientific research on sleep, you may also increase your life expectancy.
* Almased contains vitamins B6 and B12 which supports metabolic activity and energy release.
Zinc contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism.