Unlocking the Secrets of Metabolism

by Allison Tallman on

Metabolism and nutrition are two crucial components of the body’s functions that work in tandem to keep us healthy and alive. Metabolism is the process by which your body converts food and drink into energy, while nutrition refers to the nutrients that the body requires to function properly.

Understanding the relationship between metabolism and nutrition is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle – which is exactly what we’ll dive into today!

Metabolism

Metabolism is the chemical process that takes place in the cells of your body. It’s a process of breaking down food into energy that your body can use to perform its everyday functions. There are two types of metabolism – catabolism and anabolism. Catabolism is the breaking DOWN of molecules into smaller ones, whereas anabolism is the process of building UP of larger molecules.

Why does metabolism matter to us? Metabolism affects your body in many ways. It controls body temperature, builds and repairs tissues, and regulates hormones. A slow metabolism can also lead to weight gain, whereas a fast metabolism can lead to weight loss. 

Nutrition

Nutrition, AKA the nutrients that the body requires to function, includes carbs, protein, and fat. You’ve likely heard of these nutrients before. Carbs provide energy, whereas protein builds and repairs your muscle tissues. 

Your body requires a balanced diet in order for these nutrients to function properly. A diet lacking in these can lead to various health problems or can make it harder to reach your nutrition goals.

Pure Plates takes care of providing a balanced diet straight to your door so that you don’t have to think about it. By hitting your nutrition targets, like carbs, protein, and fat, you’re able to better your metabolism, which in turn will help you to lose weight, increase muscle, and better your energy.

The relationship between the two

The nutrients that you consume provides the energy that your body needs for metabolism. Nutrients are broken down into smaller molecules so that your body can use it to produce energy. The rate of metabolism is affected by the type and quantity of the nutrients that you consume. For example, consuming too many carbs can increase insulin production. Too much insulin can slow down metabolism. Similarly, consuming too little protein can lead to muscle loss, which also slows down metabolism.

 

There are many factors affecting metabolism. These include:

  • Genetics
  • Physical activity
  • Age 

Genetics, for example, plays a role because the way your body converts nutrients or the speed in which it does so may depend on the genetics that were passed down to you. Typically with age, your metabolism slows down (unfortunately!). Lastly, regular exercise, especially strength training, can increase metabolism. 

Hormones also play a role in metabolism and nutrition. Hormonal imbalances can lead to weight gain or loss, depending on the specific nutrient affected.

Misconception around metabolism 

One common misconception around d metabolism is the idea of “metabolism-boosting” diets or supplements. Unfortunately for those who want to lose weight or who have a slower metabolism, there is no evidence to suggest that such a diet or supplement exists. This exists in advertisements and marketing to sell products to you as a consumer. 

Instead of looking for another fad diet or quick fix, try a balanced meal delivery service like Pure Plates which is proven to help you to reach your goals and sustain them.

The bottom line 

The relationship between metabolism and nutrition is essential for overall health and well-being. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing your hormones are all critical factors in maintaining a healthy metabolism. Future research in this field is need to help us better understand the complex relationship between metabolism and nutrition.

For now, we understand that what we eat is more important than ever. Let Pure Plates help you to better your metabolism, and therefore make reaching your nutrition goals doable, by providing healthy prepared meals delivered straight to your door. Learn more about your plan for health here.