Can we skip breakfast? 7 metabolism myths debunked

You may have heard some mumbo jumbo about metabolism being talked about over the years, and how it can affect how you lose weight. The problem with the advice out there is that a lot of it conflicts, and over the years something you may have taken as gospel about metabolism may have already been debunked as a myth.

Here’s all you need to know about metabolism and its misconceptions.

Metabolism myth #1: Never skip breakfast

Many people believe that they must eat breakfast to kickstart their metabolism but in fact if you don’t have time, it is OK. According to a new study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition more than 300 overweight participants consumed diets that included either eating or skipping breakfast. At the end of 16 weeks, dieters who ate breakfast lost no more weight than the breakfast skippers. Breakfast is a great time to get a boost of energy, no matter what you choose, as long as it’s healthy.

Metabolism myth #2: Hot food burns fat

You’ve probably read that hot food can burn more calories and boost your metabolism, but inf act, there’s no difference between those who enjoy spicy foods and those who don’t. You won’t lose more weight!

Metabolism myth #3: Six small meals throughout the day will improve your metabolism

Some swear by eating every few hours as they believe it’s better than three bigger means but in fact you can increase your weight by eating six meals a day. Simply eat breakfast, lunch and dinner with a small snack, combined with exercise.

Metabolism myth #4: Your metabolism is genetic and can’t be changed

Although metabolism does have a genetic component, you can change your metabolic rate by increasing your exercise regime and by changing your diet. Nobody is incapable of losing weight if they do these two things regularly.

Metabolism myth #5: You shouldn’t eat carbohydrates and fats together

This “food-combining” myth says that because carbs are used for energy, if you eat carbs and fat at the same time, the fat will be stored. The theory that combining certain foods at the same meal is bad was first started over 100 years ago, and has been debunked multiple times since. As long as you make the most nutritious choices, it doesn’t matter if you’re eating carbs and fats at the same time.

Metabolism myth #6: You can’t stop your metabolism slowing as you get older

While your metabolism start to slow as you age due to muscle and tissue loss, as well as hormonal and neurological changes, it doesn’t have to be written off. You can maintain your muscle by keeping active and doing a bit of resistance training.

Metabolism myth #7: Thin people have fast metabolisms and fat people have slow metabolisms

While some people do have faster metabolisms than others, it’s to do with lean muscle mass and not overall weight. If you complain you have a slow metabolism, look at your diet and how much exercise you are doing. This could be the cause.

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