Why do we get fat?/ False myths about food and metabolism

2024-05-23 16:02:00, Shëndeti CNA

Why do we get fat? This is one of those "existential" questions that all of us, at least once in our lives, have asked ourselves.

The blame is almost always attributed to a slow and inefficient metabolism, but is this true? AgroWeb.org invites you to find out below.

What is meant by metabolism?

To put it in a more "popular" but less correct way, we can refer to metabolism as "an individual's ability to burn calories".

False myths about metabolism

We have often heard that the metabolism cannot be changed or that it is slow so you gain weight, or that those with a fast metabolism can consume whatever they want, etc. But which are true and which are myths?

Metabolism cannot be changed: False

Health experts say that it is generally possible to modify the metabolism. To achieve this goal it is important to perform physical activity, because the more you move, the more calories you burn. And this starts from the routine behavior of the day, where instead of parking as close as possible to the car, try to do the opposite, and instead of the elevator, take the stairs. The list is long!

Slow metabolism does not exist: True

It is possible that there is a genetic component or an unfavorable lifestyle that causes you to gain or not lose weight. Often this is related to the fact that all the components that make up the metabolism are not optimal, but not because there is a slow metabolism. If your goal is to lose weight, it is good to give priority to exercises that stimulate muscle growth, and practicing those activities that increase aerobic power such as running, swimming, cycling, etc.

Those with fast metabolisms can eat whatever they want: False

Foods that are highly processed, although they can fill us up in terms of calories just as much as fruits and vegetables, cannot meet our metabolic needs. Therefore, whether you exercise or not, it is important to consume as many healthy foods as possible and as few foods that are classified as unhealthy.

There are foods that increase metabolism: False

"No", is the categorical answer of the nutritionists to whom AgroWeb.org refers. However, there are some spices that help the metabolism in a very broad way, such as chili pepper, pepper or ginger.

Metabolism decreases with age: True

This is because muscle mass, the real engine of a high and efficient metabolism, decreases with age. With age, there is a progressive decrease in muscle mass, so metabolism inevitably decreases.

Diet speeds up metabolism: False

If the diet you are following is too restrictive, unbalanced, or deficient in one or more macronutrients, you will experience rapid weight loss. But drastic diets, in addition to being unsuccessful in the long run, also contribute to slowing down the metabolism.

Skipping breakfast lowers metabolism: False

Breakfast is undoubtedly one of the most important meals of the day! In fact, our body interprets night sleep as a state of food deprivation and therefore it is important to supply it properly. Skipping breakfast may expose you to increased hunger during the day, fatigue and decreased concentration, but not to decreased metabolism. However, there is no rule that always applies to everyone: the secret is to listen to the real needs of our body.

Consuming small, frequent meals speeds up metabolism: It depends

For some people this way may help, but for those who have done many diets in their life, no. This way can be an excellent solution to prevent hunger pangs and avoid excessive appetite. And if you want to lose weight, it is important to create a caloric deficit, which you only get when the calories gained are lower than those burned. Eating correctly and exercising continuously, following the right program, are the only strategies that can be implemented to increase metabolism./ AgroWeb