When women in their 40s and 50s consider a weight loss program, they should first consider their metabolism. But, what exactly is your metabolic rate? And is there a metabolism test that can help you better understand your metabolic rate? Let’s dive a little deeper.
Metabolism is Everything
When speaking of your metabolism, we are referring to the chemical changes and processes that occur in the body to break down calories. Metabolism turns those calories into energy. And, energy gets you moving!
When you have a high metabolism, you’re flying on all cylinders. It’s easier for you to lose unwanted pounds and maintain a healthy weight. Unfortunately, as we age, our bodies slow our metabolic rate, making weight loss so much harder. It can seem like an unfair hand Mother Nature delivered us. But, there are ways to turn it around.
Before you can boost your metabolism, you might wonder how it is right now. It’s always appropriate to measure your starting point. This way, you can set your goals and better understand a healthy metabolic rate for you and your body.
Get a Comprehensive Metabolism Test
A comprehensive metabolic panel test (CMP) measures 14 substances in your blood to determine your metabolic rate. A CMP will take into consideration your levels of glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, carbon dioxide, chloride, protein, and several other crucial substances. Altogether, the results will give you a clear picture of your metabolism. As a bonus, the CMP will give you an accurate understanding of your kidney and liver health.
This is a simple blood test that can be done with or without a doctor’s prescription. In fact, it’s likely you’ve had a CMP before, possibly after a regular checkup.
Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
If you’re serious about losing weight and boosting your metabolism, then perhaps the comprehensive metabolic panel test is unnecessary. You can opt to do a basic metabolic panel (BMP). This does exactly what you think. You’ll get a basic reading of your metabolism by analyzing only eight substances in your blood. The BMP is not concerned with those substances affecting the kidney or liver.
Receive Valuable Insight
When you’ve completed the metabolic testing, you should receive some very helpful numbers. First, your resting metabolic rate (RMR) will give you a good estimate of the number of calories you burn just by sitting still or sleeping. If your RMR surprises you, don’t be fooled. Everyone burns calories just by breathing and living. We expend a lot of energy just by having a heart that pumps and flows blood to all our extremities. All of our organs need calories to work. But, there’s plenty left over after that’s done.
You can also test for a maximum volume of oxygen (V02 Max) measurement. This tells you how your body uses oxygen during exercise. Don’t exercise much? That’s okay, you’ll still get this measurement. And it can be helpful going forward.
Where Can I Receive Metabolic Testing?
The best place to start is with your primary physician. They can recommend a testing facility and even give you a prescription. Alternatively, many local gyms and health clubs offer metabolic testing as well. There are also home tests you can pick up over the counter. But, the results can be difficult to interpret. Your best bet is to stick with your doctor. They can explain your results and give you a clear picture of your metabolic rate before you begin any weight loss program.
Whether or not you know your metabolic rate, we can help you lose weight! Our structured, individualized 10-week weight loss program will boost your metabolism. You’ll be well on your way to achieving and sustaining your weight loss goals. Contact us today!
