Signs of a fast metabolism include increased calorie burning, difficulty gaining weight, increased breathing, insomnia and frequent sweating.
The term fast or slow metabolism is often used depending on the speed of a person’s basal metabolic rate (BMR). Essentially, BMR determines how fast a person burns stored energy sources (glycogen or fat) to release energy while at rest.
The word metabolism, however, is more complex and consists of various processes going on in the body to build energy stores or body tissues (anabolism) or break them down (catabolism). For simplicity, the term “metabolism” will be used in this article in place of the BMR or rate of burning calories.
People with a fast metabolism burn calories faster than those with a slower metabolism. These people typically require a high-calorie intake to maintain weight. In comparison, people with a slow metabolism typically have a harder time losing weight and require a higher degree of physical activity.
The following are some of the most prevalent signs of a fast metabolism:
- Difficulty gaining weight
- Anemia
- Difficulty maintaining the desired weight
- Frequent sweating
- Being energetic or hyperactive
- A faster heart rate
- Increased breathing
- High body temperature even when you are not doing any activity
- Frequent bowel and bladder movement
- Increased appetite
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Insomnia
- A lower percentage of body fat
Ectomorphs, people with a faster metabolism, typically have a smaller frame and bone structure. They are naturally slimmer and leaner and have difficulty gaining weight. Workouts for ectomorphs should emphasize and focus on the individual muscle groups to build muscle mass. While exercise should also include cardio, there should be a greater emphasis on strength training.
Diet is an important aspect of any training program and weight loss. Starchy carbohydrates might be your best buddy because they are high in calories and provide you with instant energy to push through strenuous workouts, which is what your body needs. Because ectomorphs must consume so many calories, supplements can be a game-changer. It's also a good idea to consume something before going to bed to avoid muscle breakdown during the night.
Why do I have a fast metabolism?
The pace of your metabolism is affected by various factors, such as body size, age, gender and genes. People usually acquire a boosted metabolism from their parents. However, other factors such as age, muscle mass and physical activity contribute to your metabolic rate.
Because muscle cells require more energy to sustain than fat cells, people who have more muscle than fat have a faster metabolism. The best method to find out why you have a metabolic boost is to consult your doctor. They can determine whether you were born with it, if it is the result of a lifestyle change or if it is a side effect of a medical condition.
Fast metabolism can be a side effect of an underlying health problem, such as hyperthyroidism, which causes the thyroid gland to generate more hormones than the body requires.
How can I slow down my metabolism?
A fast metabolism isn't always a good thing, due to difficulty gaining weight and an increased rate of weight loss. Therefore, here are some methods for slowing down a boosted metabolism:
- Shun caffeinated drinks
- Engage in low-intensity physical activity that lasts for a short period
- Avoid doing any high-intensity interval training workouts
- Eat at regular intervals and prevent snacking in between main meals
- Follow nutrition guidelines for well-balanced meals
- Get adequate rest and sleep
Maintaining a healthy metabolic rate means keeping physically active, following proper nutrition, getting adequate sleep and avoiding stressful situations. There is nothing inherently wrong with having a quick metabolism. However, if you are concerned about your health, such as an inability to maintain a healthy weight, consult a doctor.
Your doctor can tell you if you have a larger problem, such as hyperthyroidism, or if your quick metabolism is simply related to the way your body is built. Moreover, they may suggest diet and lifestyle changes to maintain or improve your health.