Why is our metabolism so important?

When we think of the word “metabolism” we often associate it with the rate at which we burn fat…

But metabolism is so much more than that. The true meaning of metabolism is the conversion of food and drink into energy.

The body requires this energy in order to perform ALL of its functions. If we are consistently under-eating and under-nourishing our bodies then they simply cannot function optimally.

What does this look like?

- poor digestion: digestion slows down which means poor elimination which means an accumulation of endotoxin in the gut (contributing towards estrogen dominance) as well as bacterial overgrowth due to food sitting and fermenting in the gut instead of passing through

- adrenal gland dysfunction: when our bodies don’t have adequate energy, stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol are produced in order “help keep us alive”. Undernourished is seen as a stressor to the body

- this increase in stress leads to lowered hormone output such as lowered thyroid function and decreased progesterone production (infertility & pms)

- without adequate fuel our liver becomes overburdened. Our liver requires protein, carbohydrates & fats in order to properly detoxify. When it becomes overburdened, estrogen detoxification is compromised, leading to estrogen dominance.

- let’s not forget the effect of undernourishment on the brain. Fatigue, poor memory & concentration, brain fog, anxiety, depression & mood disorders. It’s all connected.

STARVATION AKA UNDERNOURISHED IS A THREAT TO OUR SURVIVAL. Our bodies will shut down it’s functions in order to conserve energy and keep us alive.

How do we know if we are eating enough?

Things like excess caffeine, fasted workouts, STRESS, low stomach acid, lack of sleep can all affect our appetite. So we may think that we are getting enough fuel when we are in fact undernourished.

My suggestion would be to figure out your BMR - I like this one https://www.calculator.net/bmr-calculator.html

I would then get an app like chronometer and log your food for a few days to see where you’re at.

What about weight gain?

I would start adding in calories slowly. If your metabolism is used to burning 1200 calories a day, then that’s what it’s capable of. In order to increase your metabolism without the undesired weight gain (this could be necessary but that’s for another post), then aim to slowly increase your intake by about 50-100 calories a week or every second week. It all depends on where you are at and what your goals are and ultimately, HOW YOU FEEL.

XXX

Jess