How to Reset Your Metabolism: 13 Easy Scientifically Proven Tips

Are you looking for ways to reset your metabolism to help you lose weight? Look no further! Learn how to improve your metabolism from this detailed guide.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ruth Cohen,
Medical Director, Layla
Reviewed by
Dr. Ruth Cohen
Medical Director, Layla
Last Updated
June 29, 2024
8 clinical references

How to Reset Your Metabolism: 13 Easy Scientifically Proven Tips

Your metabolism is responsible for your body's functions. It is what keeps you running. Whether you are doing simple tasks like writing or complex activities like running a marathon, your metabolism plays a vital role. That is why it is essential in weight management and overall health. A better metabolic health allows you to manage your weight better.

Have you been wondering how to reset your metabolism to facilitate weight loss? In this article, we will learn about the body's metabolism and how to improve it. The following tips are backed by scientific research to help you reset your metabolism.

Key Takeaways

  • Several factors, such as age, genetics, muscle mass, and diet influence your metabolism.
  • There is no quick fix for resetting your metabolism. However, implementing these tips can optimize your metabolic health over time.
  • Consistency is key! Making small, sustainable changes to your lifestyle can boost your metabolic health.

Metabolism Explained

What is Metabolism

What is Metabolism?

Metabolism simply refers to all the chemical processes that convert all you eat and drink into energy (ATP) for your body. This ATP serves as fuel to keep your body running throughout your lifetime. The amount of energy your body uses at rest is called the basal metabolic rate (BMR).

A person's metabolism can influence how they gain or lose weight. A fast metabolic rate means that you can burn more calories at rest, which can facilitate weight loss. People with slow metabolisms can gain weight if they consume the same calories as individuals with higher metabolism.

The metabolic rate also affects energy levels. A person with a fast metabolism burns more calories, which makes them feel energized throughout the day. On the other hand, a slow metabolism burns fewer calories and can result in low energy levels.

Factors That Influence Metabolism

Metabolism varies from person to person. Several factors influence your metabolic rate, including:

Age: Generally, metabolism reduces as you get older. One reason for this decline is that you lose muscle mass as you age.

Genetics: Metabolism varies from family to family. Some inherited disorders like Gaucher's disease can affect a person's metabolism.

Muscle mass: Muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue. So, individuals with higher muscle mass tend to have higher metabolic rates.

Physical activity: Energy consumption is directly proportional to an individual's level of physical activity. So, more physical activity is associated with higher metabolism and vice versa.

Diet: There is a phenomenon known as the thermic effect of food (TEF), which simply refers to the increase in metabolism after eating because of the energy needed to digest food. Protein-rich foods have the highest TEF, while fat-rich meals have the lowest TEF.

Do You Need a Metabolic Reset?

Are you unsure of whether or not you need to reset your metabolism? Below are some signs of a slow metabolism and the benefits you gain from a reset.

Signs of a Slow Metabolism

There are many signs that can point to having a slow metabolism. These may include:

  1. Fatigue: You may notice that you feel tired all the time or get easily fatigued after doing little work. A slow metabolism might be the culprit, as your body isn't finding it easy to convert food into energy.

  1. Weight gain: Did you notice that you gain weight easily even if you eat small amounts of food? It could be that you have a slow metabolism.

  1. Difficulty losing weight: If you find it hard to lose weight despite changing your lifestyle, this might be a sign that your metabolism is slow.

  1. Low energy levels: If you have a slow metabolic rate, you may feel sluggish than usual and have a low mood as well.

Benefits of Resetting Your Metabolism

Benefits of Maintaining Metabolism

There are a lot of advantages to optimizing your metabolism. These include:

  1. Improved energy levels: Resetting your metabolism means your body can now get more energy from food and drinks. As a result of this, you feel energized throughout the day.

  1. Weight management: With a metabolic reset, you can effectively manage your weight. It becomes easier for you to lose weight, and you do not gain weight as rapidly as before.

  1. Better mood: Having better metabolic health can improve your mood. You can feel less depressed and anxious.

  1. Overall health: Having a better metabolism can improve your health, such as by strengthening your immune system, improving your heart condition, and controlling your blood glucose.

13 Science-Backed Tips to Reset Your Metabolism

Since your metabolic rate can affect your weight management and overall health, resetting your metabolism can have many benefits. 

You can learn how to reset your metabolism with these 13 science-backed tips:

  1. Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is vital to resetting your metabolism, as your body needs it for all its metabolic processes. One study even showed that participants who drank 500mls of water had a 30% boost in metabolism shortly after. Aim to drink up to 8 glasses of water daily to help your metabolism.

  1. Get enough sleep

Not getting enough sleep can slow your body's metabolism to save energy. A study showed that being sleep-deprived makes your body slow down fat metabolism rather than using it for energy. Try to get a good night's rest of 7-8 hours for the best results.

  1. Try strength training

Muscle tissue burns more calories than fat. So, the more muscle mass you have, the higher your metabolic rate becomes over time. Studies have shown that doing resistance training can boost your metabolism by up to 9% for three days after a single session.

  1. Try moving around

There is a phenomenon called non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT). This is a fancy way of describing the energy you burn from non-exercise activities like mopping the floor or mowing your lawn. So, get up from the comfort of your chair and move around to improve your metabolic health.

  1. Start Cardio

Engaging in aerobic exercises like cycling or jogging can increase your metabolism. Additionally, cardio helps you burn calories and protect your heart. One study showed that candidates who cycled for 45 minutes had a metabolic boost that lasted up to 14 hours.

  1. Consider HIIT

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a form of workout where you do short, intense exercise followed by a period of rest. Evidence suggests that engaging in these regular, short bursts of workout can improve your metabolic health.

  1. Eat spicy food

Evidence suggests that adding chili peppers to your food can temporarily boost your metabolism. This is because chili peppers contain Capsaicin, a substance that aids fat loss and burns calories.

  1. Go fasting

Research has shown that Intermittent fasting is a powerful tool that you can use to reset your metabolism. This method of fasting involves following a schedule for when you can eat.

  1. Avoid Alcohol

If you want to reset your metabolism, you may need to reduce or completely stop drinking alcohol. Consuming excess amounts of alcohol can reduce fat metabolism in your body.

  1. Eat a lot of protein

As we discussed above, protein has a high thermic effect, and your metabolism increases after you consume protein-rich foods. Protein also helps you build muscle mass and lose fat, leading to a higher metabolism.

  1. Try out caffeine

Some studies suggest that caffeine can increase your BMR. A cup of tea or coffee every day can boost your metabolism and let you burn more fat. However, do not rely too much on caffeine, as excess can reduce your sleep quality and make you nervous.

  1. Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet can improve your metabolic health. If you're not fasting, skipping meals can lead to overeating later and disrupt your metabolism. Starving can also reduce your metabolism at the initial stages of weight loss.

  1. Practice mindfulness techniques

A study in 2018 showed that meditation improved the metabolic profiles of participants. This is because stress can negatively impact your metabolism, and meditation reduces stress. So, you can get going with yoga or practice relaxation exercises.

Long-Term Strategies for Maintaining a Healthy Metabolism

Maintaining a Healthy Metabolism

With the tips above, you can successfully improve your body's metabolism. However, these tips take time to fix. From being consistent to monitoring your progress, here's how you can sustain a healthy metabolism:

Consistency is Key

A one-time or inconsistent plan cannot significantly influence your body's metabolic processes. To achieve the best results, you have to focus on sustaining the habits that increase your metabolism. For instance, regular workout sessions are more beneficial than sporadic weightlifting.

The key is to make small, gradual changes and stick to your plan for a healthy metabolism.

Monitoring Progress

So, how can you tell if your efforts are fruitful? Here are some ways you can track improvements in your metabolism:

Keep records of your weight: Monitoring your weight over time can let you know the state of your metabolism. You can also track your body composition, which shows your metabolic health more clearly.

Monitor your energy levels: As we discussed above, slow metabolism is often associated with low energy. Be mindful of how you feel throughout the day. Feeling less tired over time can be a pointer that your metabolism is improving.

Monitor your overall health: While resetting your metabolism, make sure to pay attention to your health and well-being. Monitor your blood sugar levels, be mindful of how your heart beats, and do not neglect any unhealthy symptoms you might have.

Connect with a healthcare provider: Regular visits to your healthcare provider can help you monitor your metabolic progress. Besides, your doctor can assist you in addressing any concerns you may have on how to reset your metabolism.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to reset your metabolism, the entire process requires patience and consistency. From exercising and drinking enough water to getting adequate sleep and meditating, we have discussed 13 tips to reset your metabolism.

By incorporating these tips into your daily life, your metabolic health will improve. From increased energy levels to better overall health, the benefits of resetting your metabolism are immense.

So, try these tips and see the difference in your metabolism and well-being!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I trick my metabolism into burning fat?

You can only optimize your metabolism to burn fat. By adopting habits like eating well, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly, you can train your metabolism to burn fat more.

Does fasting burn fat?

Yes! During fasting, your body uses glucose as its primary source of energy. Once the glucose is used up, your body starts burning fat as its main energy source.

What foods boost metabolism?

Foods high in protein can boost metabolism. Other foods that can boost metabolism include beans, legumes, coffee, tea, chili pepper, seaweed, and nuts.

How to burn 1000 calories a day?

Burning 1000 calories per day is achievable if you are ready to put in the work. Some ways to do this are:

  1. Cycling: if you want to burn 1000 calories daily, then you need to cycle for approximately 2 hours at a speed of 14 to 15 mph.
  2. Running: If you like running, you may need to run at about 9 mph for approximately 90 minutes to burn 1000 calories in a day.

Note that the above figures may vary from person to person. If you are trying to lose weight, just make sure you burn more calories than you eat.

What exercise burns the most calories?

There is no single best exercise for burning calories. However, if you are looking for a workout that burns a lot of calories, running might be your answer. A normal-sized adult can burn up to 800 calories in one hour while running.

Does sweating burn calories?

No. Sweating does not burn calories. Your body sweats to cool down while exercising, which can also mean that you are working hard. Although you may notice slight weight loss from sweating, it is only temporary, and you will regain that weight after drinking water.

Sources

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Disclaimer

Off-Label Use: When discussing off-label uses, such as using Ozempic for weight loss, make it clear that this is not FDA-approved for that purpose. For example, you can add a disclaimer like: “While Ozempic is primarily approved for treating Type 2 diabetes, some healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for weight loss. However, this use is not FDA-approved.”

Medical Advice Disclaimer: Clearly state that the article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Encourage readers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

Tirzepatide: The New Challenger
Tirzepatide is relatively new to the market and works by activating both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual-action approach is theorized to offer more potent effects on weight loss and glucose control.
Advantages:
Early studies indicate that Tirzepatide may offer superior glucose-lowering effects and weight loss compared to GLP-1 agonists alone. The medication could potentially provide an improvement in treatment outcomes for individuals with type 2 diabetes, particularly those who are also focusing on weight loss as part of their treatment goals.
Considerations:
As a newer medication, Tirzepatide’s long-term safety profile is still being established. Patients may experience side effects similar to other medications in the GLP-1 class, and close monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Choosing the Right GLP-1 Medication with Layla
At Layla, we provide a comprehensive overview of the GLP-1 medication options available in our program, detailing the benefits and considerations of each to help you make an informed decision for diabetes management or weight loss.
Semaglutide
A widely chosen GLP-1 medication, Semaglutide boasts a high satisfaction rate among patients due to its convenience of once-weekly dosing and efficacy in reducing blood sugar levels and aiding weight loss. When selecting Semaglutide through Layla, consider how its dosing schedule and health benefits align with your lifestyle.
What makes Semaglutide a highly effective choice?
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Acts on biological factors that can prevent weight loss
Suppresses appetite & helps you feel fuller, longer
Helps control blood sugars

Can I feel confident in the safety of Semaglutide?
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3 MONTH STARTER PROGRAM
● Best value option
● Ideal for those commencing their weight loss journey
● Convenient billing method: $247 charged monthly
● Doses start at 0.25 mg/week, escalating to 2.5 mg/week (totaling 10 mg)
● Limited to one use per customer

MONTHLY PROGRAM
● $297 per month
● Available for customers starting at a higher dose or already on medication

How does the program work?
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STEP 1: Place your order online and complete a medical intake form detailing your health and weight loss goals.

STEP 2: Connect with your physician through our HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. No more waiting weeks or months for appointments.

STEP 3: Once approved, your prescription is sent to a pharmacy, which will deliver the medication straight to your door.

STEP 4: Ongoing Support. We regularly check in with you to ensure you're maximizing the benefits of our program. Our support team is available for chat, and you can message your doctor anytime with questions.

See available plans
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide stands as a powerful GLP-1 medication alternative, particularly for those seeking an effective diabetes and weight management solution with a more spaced dosing regimen. Its administration through injections allows for flexible treatment planning tailored to individual needs.
What makes Tirzepatide a highly effective choice?
Caret

Acts on biological factors that can prevent weight loss
Suppresses appetite & helps you feel fuller, longer
Helps control blood sugars

Can I feel confident in the safety of Tirzepatide?
Caret

3 MONTH STARTER PROGRAM
● Best value option
● Ideal for those commencing their weight loss journey
● Convenient billing method: $247 charged monthly
● Doses start at 0.25 mg/week, escalating to 2.5 mg/week (totaling 10 mg)
● Limited to one use per customer

MONTHLY PROGRAM
● $297 per month
● Available for customers starting at a higher dose or already on medication

How does the program work?
Caret

STEP 1: Place your order online and complete a medical intake form detailing your health and weight loss goals.

STEP 2: Connect with your physician through our HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. No more waiting weeks or months for appointments.

STEP 3: Once approved, your prescription is sent to a pharmacy, which will deliver the medication straight to your door.

STEP 4: Ongoing Support. We regularly check in with you to ensure you're maximizing the benefits of our program. Our support team is available for chat, and you can message your doctor anytime with questions.

See available plans

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