CHARLOTTE, North Carolina — There are many rewarding things about getting older but a slower metabolism isn't one of them.
But experts at UCLA Medical Center say there are ways to beat the metabolic slump.
What is metabolism? According to the Mayo Clinic, metabolism is the process by which your body converts what you eat and drink into energy. Experts say there are three major reasons your metabolism slows: age, mental health and sleep. Specifically, after the age of 30, your muscle mass decreases eight percent per decade.
As for your mental health, this has to do with how much anxiety and stress you have in your life. When it comes to sleep, not getting the recommended seven to eight hours a night can decrease your metabolism as well.
The good news is there are changes you can make to rev up your metabolism and stop the slump, according to the experts. Here's how.
Experts say to make sure than 20-25 percent of every meal is protein. Exercise is also key to kicking your metabolism into high gear. Doctors say focus on resistance training that builds muscle mass and has lasting effects hours after your workout is complete.
And finally, you must have a consistent sleep schedule. Experts say sticking to a certain bedtime that allows you to get seven or eight hours your body needs will help fight off weight gain and energy loss that comes with an aging metabolism.