Does your metabolism slow as you age? Discover the facts and follow these expert tips
Your metabolism is affected by lifestyle, your gut biome and even muscle mass. Age does have an impact, but not in the way you might think
Many of us attribute gradual weight gain in middle age and beyond to a slow metabolism, but to what extent is this assumption true?
In a world flooded with health advice and ever-changing diet trends, we consulted Matyas Fehervari, a consultant bariatric surgeon at Nuffield Health in the UK, who works extensively with metabolic issues, to cut through all the noise.
He has helped demystify exactly what a metabolism is, how it can change with age and some key ways we can maintain a healthy metabolism as we get older.
“Metabolism refers to the chemical processes that keep our bodies functioning – from converting food into energy to repairing cells and supporting organ function,” Fehervari says. “The metabolic rate is the amount of energy your body uses to maintain these vital processes.
“Even when you’re resting, your body is still working to keep your heart beating, lungs breathing and brain active – this is known as your basal metabolic rate (BMR).”
“One of the biggest myths is that people with a ‘fast’ metabolism can eat whatever they like without gaining weight,” Fehervari says. “In reality, differences between individuals are usually modest.”