Metabolism: Myths and Facts

Metabolism is one of the most complex processes in the human body and one of the most popular topics for discussion. Therefore, there are many claims about metabolism, the truth of which has been proven or, conversely, refuted. Therefore, we improve our knowledge of the most important processes of the body in this article.

Less fat – quick metabolism

This is a true fact. Less fat – more muscle, and to provide energy of one kilogram of muscle mass in our body goes about 12 kcal, and it is at rest, without physical exertion. If you do additional work, you spend even more energy working on your muscles. Accordingly, the metabolism will be accelerated when there is enough muscle in the body.

The pancreas affects metabolism

It’s a myth. In fact, the thyroid gland is responsible for this. It produces thyroxine, triiodothyronine that regulates the rate of fat burning and calorie deposition. Thyroid dysfunction leads to hypothyroidism, in which little hormones are produced, and metabolism is therefore slowed down. Therefore, if you experience a sharp change in weight gain, it may be a reason to see an endocrinologist.

Lack of water slows down metabolism

It is a fact. And it is not surprising, because 70% of the human body (in a healthy state) is composed of water. It has long been proven that by drinking at least one and a half liters of water a day, you significantly improve your metabolic processes. In case of illness, training and active mental activity it is necessary to consume at least 2 liters.

There is food that affects metabolism

It is a myth. We are ready to believe in any miracle remedy that can solve the problem immediately. Hence the numerous claims that grapefruit, pineapple, ginger or green tea can “burn” fat by speeding up metabolism. But there is no miracle. All of these products are certainly useful, but they may not speed up metabolism. In order to “boost” metabolism to the level of fat burning, it is necessary to use similar products in large quantities. Agree, a kilogram of chili peppers a day you are unlikely to eat – but only in that amount will make sense use it for this.

Hard diets accelerate metabolism

It is a myth. If you eat less – you feel hungry more often. Eating after long hours of starvation helps you “make your metabolism” crazy. It is better to eat well. Ideally, there should be three-five meals a day – it maybe three main meals and two snacks in between. This mode will cause the body’s metabolic processes to work constantly rather than slow them down when you are not eating for a long time. It is better not to lose weight by starvation, but by a reasonable reduction of caloric intake – no more than 20-25% of initial level. As well as you must use the exercise.

Cold food can speed up the metabolism

It is a myth. Indeed, our body consumes about 20% of energy for “heat treatment” while eating, that is, to warm food and drinks in the stomach before they reach the intestines. But the body does it regardless of the temperature of the food itself because it needs to be warmed to at least 36.6 degrees Celsius – the standard temperature of the human body. Even the coldest food will cause your metabolism to “strain” no more than just 10 calories a day.