As we age, our energy and activity levels gradually decline, making it harder to maintain or lose any extra weight. I’ve noticed this shift in my own life and have become more conscious of social media and ‘Big Pharma’s’ constant bombardment of products and procedures to speed up our metabolism and aid “rapid weight loss”.

So, what is metabolism? It refers to the complex network of chemical reactions within cells that sustain life and keep our bodies functioning optimally. These processes convert food we eat into energy, powering essential functions such as muscle movement, immune defence, temperature regulation, tissue repair, heart rhythm and cognitive performance.

The reality, of course, is that there are some ‘magic’ treatments – GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) derivative pills and injectables – a well-known one being Ozempic. GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, obesity.

Many downsides to rapid weight-loss products

What these treatments offer in non-medical interventions is the double-edged curse of instant gratification. Unlike safer, more sustainable methods, these rapid weight-loss products offer a quick fix, with less time and effort required to reach one’s desired goal or target weight. There are downsides – high costs, Pharma-marketing hype versus effectiveness, limited research or long-term studies of dangers, and the risks of side effects.

There are sometimes valid medical reasons for individuals to use pharmaceutical products or undergo medical procedures to support weight loss or maintenance efforts, but understanding one’s metabolic type is key in supporting natural weight management interventions.

So, what is a metabolic type? This concept has existed since the 1960s, and has continued to progress with the advancement of science and medicine. Essentially, there are three main metabolic types:

• Mixed – this is where an individual is able to metabolise both carbohydrates and proteins efficiently. These individuals tend to have a slightly slower metabolism, characterised by naturally rounder body shapes, carry a higher than average percentage of body fat, and find it harder to lose weight. If you fall into this category, following a balanced diet with moderate amounts of protein, healthy fats and complex carbs works best for you.

• Carbohydrate – these individuals tend to have a fast metabolism, characterised by low body fat and narrower hips. They generally find it harder to put on weight, love eating carb-rich foods, don’t tend to bloat, and feel satiated for a long time after eating.

• Protein – these individuals usually have a slower metabolism, may carry more body fat or find it difficult to lose weight. They tend to feel better eating protein-rich foods like meat, fish or cheese, and carbs seem to go straight to their waistline. I can certainly identify with this feeling!

When our metabolic processes are running efficiently, they contribute to improved overall health, support physical and mental performance, help regulate body weight, ensure nutrients reach your cells, and assist in the removal of metabolic waste and toxins.

Next month, we will look at some strategies to keep our metabolism revved up and working optimally.