Why Has My Metabolism Decreased With Age?

Metabolism slows with aging. Remember when you could eat anything you want and not gain an ounce? A slowing metabolism doesn’t allow you to do that anymore. Dr. Lynne Ahn, a board-certified gastroenterologist and anti-aging and regenerative medicine specialist at Ahn Point Wellness, explains why your metabolism has decreased and suggests ways to boost metabolism. 

Metabolism 

Metabolism is the amount of energy necessary for bodily maintenance. As metabolism slows, the body requires fewer calories. That is why you can put on extra pounds even if you are eating habits haven’t changed. Because female metabolism is slower than that of males, women have more issues with weight control. Menopause is another factor, as “the change of life” contributes to a slowing metabolism.

However, a recent study appearing in Science upends some of the conventional wisdom surrounding metabolism. The study found little difference between male and female metabolism when controlling for other factors. The bottom line has not changed: Consume more calories than you burn, and weight gain happens.

Energy Requirements

Although the heart, liver and brain constitute just 5 percent of body weight, these organs account for 65 percent of the body’s resting metabolic weight. As metabolism slows, these vital organs do not function as well as they once did. Chronic diseases occur more often in the older demographic, and a slowing metabolism is a likely cause. Metabolism changes the most after the age of 60.

Diet and Exercise

Every person’s metabolism is unique. After undergoing diagnostic testing and evaluation, a custom-tailored diet and exercise program is created to help each patient lose weight — and keep it off. Since a decline in muscle mass is also associated with aging, it’s crucial to have an exercise program in place designed to specifically increase and maintain muscle mass.

A Holistic Approach

When it comes to metabolic disorders, a holistic approach is needed. While proper diet and exercise are crucial, that’s just part of the equation. Patients may benefit from vitamin and herbal supplementation, hormone replacement therapy, stress management and detoxification programs.  

For instance, hormone production changes as we age. The most obvious example is menopause, in which the female reproductive system stops producing estrogen. Both women and men’s testosterone levels decline over time. The thyroid gland, which controls metabolism, undergoes functional changes as the body ages. Some of the side effects of these changes are subtle and attributed to the normal aging process; however, when thyroid problems are addressed, patients usually feel better physically and mentally.

For More Information, Contact Dr. Lynne Ahn

If you would like more information about boosting your metabolism as you age, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lynne Ahn of Ahn Point Wellness. She will design a custom-tailored program to address your metabolic issues.