3 Keys to Weight Management

Andrea D'Ambrosio September 22, 2015 Health, Weight Loss

Key #3: Keep your Metabolism Revving!

Did you know that metabolism slows when you cut calories? Likewise, our bodies’ burn fewer calories per minute at rest when we lose weight. Additionally, loss of muscle mass also decreases metabolism. According to the Centre for Science in the Public Interest, about 25 per cent of the weight that dieters lose is lean (muscle) mass. This loss of muscle tissue lowers our metabolism or the number of calories we are burning.

In order to keep your metabolism revving, emphasize meal regularity (avoid going long periods without eating) and implement resistance-training exercises like Pilates or free weights. Keep in mind that muscle weighs more than fat. Don’t be alarmed if for this reason you notice a slight weight increase. You are shifting body composition to be higher in calorie burning muscle. However, being “heath-focused”, you will not be defeated or critical of yourself knowing that you’re actually making progress!

Bottom Line:

Tony Robbins has said, “It’s not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives, but what we do consistently.” Weight management is contingent upon making sustainable, lifelong changes and keeping a “health-focused” attitude that is rooted in self-love. By staying mindful of metabolism you can maintain your lean body mass. Last, if you are looking for professional guidance, be sure to team up with a Registered Dietitian for support along your journey!

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Author

Andrea D'Ambrosio

Andrea is a Registered Dietitian and owner of Dietetic Directions, a nutritional counselling and education company. Andrea's mission is to inspire clients through motivation and guidance to achieve life-long health behaviour changes. She has taken continuing education in the areas of Food Allergy and Food Hypersensitivity, Health Research Literacy, Motivational Interviewing & Coaching for Behaviour Change.