5. The last possible cause of a slow metabolism, lack of sleep.
Sufficient sleep is important for a fit mind but also for a fit body. Although it is possible to get away with little sleep sometimes, in a matter of days your body will return the “favor”.
It is very important to get a good night’s sleep of 8-9 hours, because only then a full regeneration processes take place, and without regeneration no construction is possible.
Today, there are enough research results about the fact that sleep is essential for a well functioning metabolism. Too little sleep increases the cortisol levels and consequently leads to muscle breakdown.
Many people say that 4-6 hours is just enough for a good night’s rest and everything is a matter of habit. But in the long run I’m sure they will feel that the lack of sleep negatively impacts performance and physical well-being.
So a good nigh rest of about 8 hours and even a nap during the day can make wonders for concentration, well-being and sports performance.
The reasons for a slow metabolism can be many, but there are a few that can be controlled. Try to find the mistakes and correct them. A “broken” metabolism can be annoying but is not a reason to throw in the towel. If you stick to the basics mentioned here, you will surely make a long-term success and decrease the number of problems with a slow metabolism.
sources:
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Judelson et al. (2007): Hydration and muscular performance: does fluid balance affect, strength, power and high-intensity endurance? In: Sports Medicine. URL: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17887814.
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