First the bad news. Each passing birthday, that slice of cake clings harder to your body. Metabolism slows each year, meaning that you will burn approximately 7,300 fewer calories this year than last.
Now for the good news. You can do something about it. A few tweaks to your daily routine and you can break the downward cycle while upping your energy level at the same time. Who wouldn’t like a little more energy to get through their days?
Eat like a queen.
Eating a big healthy breakfast sets your day up properly. Skipping breakfast is a common “fix” for a busy life that ultimately does more harm than good. John Acquaviva Ph.D. explains, “Skipping breakfast puts your body into panic mode making it hoard calories instead of burn them.” Since I do not want my body turning into a hoarder, eating a breakfast with protein, whole grains and fruit is the plan.
Flush out the energy.
Staying well-hydrated is the best way to ensure your body is working at optimal capacity. Water is truly the wonder drug, it is proven to cut fatigue levels and increases the body’s ability to convert food into energy. So have a tall glass of water handy throughout the day.
Work out like a child.
Instead of waiting until you have that coveted free hour, grab ten minutes here and ten minutes there. Children naturally have bursts of activity throughout the day. Now that you are an adult, those times of running around or picking up a jump rope, just because it is there, are less common. Well, it is a good idea to take up this childish habit again and work out like a child. Research shows that adults who work out in fast-paced, short sessions are rewarded with more energy and ultimately burn up to 35% more fat. Race you to the corner!
Take the bath prescription.
If you are feeling sluggish, try the bath cure. Three times a week soak in a tub of warm water that has been spiked with two cups of Epsom salts and six drops of lemongrass essential oil. The dose of magnesium from the salt and the natural compounds in the oil soak into your skin and can boost your energy level.
Spice it up.
Start experimenting with different spices. Try the hot spices such as chili powder, ginger, cayenne pepper and mustard. Not only does the enjoyment of your food go up with interesting spices, but they also help increase your metabolism and stop your fat-burning liver from slowing down. Needless to say, once you have eaten a spicy meal, your threshold for drinking water also increases, making this a real win-win.
Resources:
Woman’s World
Water Cure
Water and Salt, Barbara Hendel, M.D.
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Aging and Aglets
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