What Is Metabolic Age And How Do You Lower It?

metabolic age BMR

What is metabolic age?

 

Metabolic age is a concept that compares an individual’s metabolic rate to that of others of the same chronological age. It is often used as a way to assess an individual’s overall health and fitness level. Typically, it is determined by comparing a person’s basal metabolic rate (BMR), or the number of calories their body burns while at rest, to the average BMR for people of that age. If a person’s BMR is lower than average for their age, their metabolic age will be higher than their actual age. Conversely, if their BMR is higher than average for their age, their metabolic age will be lower than their actual age. A person’s metabolic age may be higher or lower than their chronological age depending on factors such as diet, exercise, and overall health status. However, it’s not a scientifically recognized metric nor a reliable indicator of health. Therefore, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional to properly evaluate one’s health status.

 

How to know our metabolic age

The easiest way is through a bioimpedance scale, also known as a bioelectrical impedance machine. This machine will help us calculate our percentage of fat, both at the muscular level and visceral fat, as well as our bone density and our wateriness, that is, how much water our body has.

Of course, we can also go to a doctor and have a medical exam to know our metabolic age and see our starting point.

 

Why is my metabolic age so high?

Metabolic age is a measure of how well your body is functioning metabolically based on factors such as your weight, muscle mass, and activity level. A high metabolic age could be caused by a variety of factors, such as being overweight, having a low muscle mass, or being physically inactive. It could also be influenced by genetics and certain medical conditions. Therefore, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to understand why your metabolic age is high and what steps you can take to improve it.

 

How to improve metabolic age

Improving your metabolic age would mean having a metabolism that is better than average for your age. The steps to lower metabolic age can also improve metabolic age:

  • Exercise regularly: Exercise builds muscle mass and revs up your metabolic processes so that even at rest, you burn kilojoules more quickly.
  • Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains can help improve your metabolic age. Protein is a crucial component of any healthy diet. Your body burns more calories after consuming foods high in protein than after consuming foods high in fat. To improve the number of calories you burn each day and support your weight loss attempts to reduce body fat, include at least one type of protein in your diet.
  • Get enough sleep: Studies have demonstrated a connection between sleep and a slower metabolism. Your aging process will be slowed down if you get adequate sleep.
  • Reduce stress: Lack of effective stress management leads to bad sleep, skipping exercises, eating fast food that frequently makes us feel worse later, and wreaking havoc on our bodies. These factors can all increase metabolic age.
  • Take supplements: Some supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin D, can help improve metabolism and improve metabolic age.
  • Better sleep for a better metabolic age: Besides diet and exercise, getting a good night’s sleep is crucial. A lack of sleep can result in weight increase, according to research, and sleep is crucial for energy metabolism. If you have trouble sleeping, try stretching before bed.
  • Consult a healthcare professional: They can help you create a personalized plan that may help you improve your metabolic age.

It’s also important to note that genetics, medical conditions, and medications can also affect your metabolic rate, so it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your lifestyle.

 

CONCLUSION

Rather than being a medical phrase, metabolic age is more of a fitness term. It allows you to compare your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) to those of other people your age. It can give you a broad picture of your metabolism, allowing you to take action to manage your weight and improve your health. When considering your general health, your metabolic age is really one little factor. However, it might make it easier for you to comprehend why you’re putting on weight or why losing weight is becoming more challenging.

The greatest way to lose weight and build lean muscle mass is to reduce your calorie intake while increasing your physical activity. If you are worried about your BMR or weight, speak with your doctor first.