How to Loss Belly Fat

Often, people struggle to lose weight despite following a healthy diet and getting enough sleep. The reason behind this can be a slow metabolism, which prevents the body from burning more energy. In a conversation with MedikForum (MF), endocrinologist Antonina Gureeva shared three pieces of advice for Russians on how to speed up their metabolism for weight loss.

Building Muscle Mass

Muscles play a crucial role in the body, not only in terms of movement but also in metabolic processes. They are highly metabolically active tissue, meaning they require energy to function, even when the body is at rest. This metabolic activity contributes to the overall energy expenditure of an individual, and it can be advantageous for weight loss, particularly for those with a slower metabolism.

When it comes to weight loss, incorporating strength training exercises into your routine can be highly beneficial. Strength training involves engaging in activities that challenge and stimulate the muscles, such as weightlifting, resistance training, or bodyweight exercises. By engaging in these exercises, you promote muscle growth and development.

As you progress on your weight loss journey and approach your desired weight, it is an opportune time to incorporate strength training into your fitness regimen. The addition of strength training exercises helps to build and increase muscle mass, which can further enhance your metabolism. This is because muscles are more metabolically active than fat tissue, meaning they burn more calories even at rest. As you develop more muscle mass, your body requires more energy to sustain and support these muscles, resulting in an increased metabolic rate.

By increasing your muscle mass through strength training, you can elevate your basal metabolic rate (BMR), which is the number of calories your body needs to perform basic functions while at rest. A higher BMR allows you to burn more calories throughout the day, even during periods of inactivity.

It’s important to note that incorporating strength training should be done gradually and with proper form to minimize the risk of injury. It’s advisable to seek guidance from a qualified fitness professional or personal trainer to ensure you are performing exercises correctly and safely.

In conclusion, the inclusion of strength training exercises in your weight loss journey can have significant benefits. By promoting muscle growth and increasing muscle mass, you can boost your metabolism and enhance your body’s ability to burn calories, even at rest. Remember to approach strength training gradually and seek professional guidance to ensure an effective and safe workout routine.

Maintaining a Caloric Deficit

Maintaining a caloric deficit is an effective strategy for managing weight and achieving body composition goals. The principle of “burn more than you consume” is widely recognized in the realm of fitness and nutrition. However, it is crucial to strike a balance and avoid extreme calorie restriction, as it can have negative effects on metabolism.

According to Gureeva, a recommended approach is to gradually reduce daily calorie intake by approximately 250 calories. This moderate reduction allows for sustainable progress without putting undue stress on the body. It’s important to note that individual calorie needs may vary based on factors such as age, gender, activity level, and overall health. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance in determining the appropriate caloric deficit.

Incorporating Healthy Fats and Proteins into Your Diet

In addition to managing calorie intake, the quality of the food consumed plays a significant role in supporting metabolic health. Including foods rich in healthy fats and proteins is highly recommended. Examples of such foods include avocados, nuts, seeds, and lean sources of protein like poultry, fish, and legumes.

These types of foods are digested more slowly by the body, requiring more energy for the digestion process. As a result, the metabolism is stimulated, and the body expends more calories during digestion. This is commonly referred to as the thermic effect of food. Moreover, incorporating adequate protein into the diet helps in building and maintaining muscle mass. As muscle tissue is metabolically active, having more muscle can contribute to a higher metabolic rate and increased calorie expenditure.

It’s important to note that achieving a healthy metabolism and managing weight is a multifaceted process that involves various factors, including regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and overall lifestyle choices. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can provide comprehensive guidance tailored to individual needs and goals.