If you have a weight loss program and practicing a regular workout and a healthy diet but still find that your approach lacks results, you might consider the issue of a slow metabolism. Sometimes a responsible attitude is not enough to lose weight, and you might not be the one to blame. Metabolism is the body's process of conversion of food and liquid into energy. Many factors effects metabolism, and one of them is genetics. In today's post, Chicago`s best weight loss expert will describe the sights that might indicate a slow metabolism. These are the warning signs to consider in a low metabolism:

1. Gaining Weight

The amount and speed of burning calories depend on a metabolic rate. In most cases, the weight is the outcome of calorie intake compared to calories burned. Eating less doesn't necessarily mean weight loss. Due to the few and limited calorie values consumed, in an attempt to balance, the body will retain calories, slow down calorie burning and consequentially make it harder to lose weight. 

Unexplainable gain of weight might be due to hypothyroidism. This condition occurs with the lack of thyroid hormones that regulate the body's base metabolism.

Laboratory analysis will present the level of thyroid gland hormones. Hormonal pills are the treatment of choice for these conditions.

2. Fatigue

The consequence of the slow metabolism is frequent tiredness and sluggish feeling.  The lack of sleep also decreases the metabolic rate. 

Provide yourself with enough quality sleep at night and avoid sleeping through the day. Establish a sleeping pattern regime that will allow you a full night's sleep.

3. Dry skin and hair

With slow metabolism ate activity of the cells is inhibited. Decreased blood supply results in a lack of vitamins for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Nutrient deficiency reflects in dry skin, brittle nails, and hair dullness. In the attempt to preserve the water, the body will sweat less, resulting in a lack of topical oils and moisture with cracked skin. Besides the hair dryness and lack of glow, the slow metabolism affects the hair in the way of suppressed ability to regenerate and grow.

Increase the intake of food rich in proteins. Fish is a good choice in supplying omega3 oils and calcium. Various seeds, especially chia, will provide sufficient micronutrients.

4. Mental health

The lack of thyroid hormones impacts mental health and cognitive abilities. Underactive thyroid gland triggers headaches and migraines, poor memory, and depression. 

Make an effort to be more active. Movement increases blood flow while urges the brain to produce endorphins, the “happiness” hormone, that will elevate your mood.

5. Carbohydrate and sugar cravings

Some conditions lower the ability of the pancreas gland to produce insulin. Insulin is the hormone that controls metabolism by regulating calorie and energy burning. Slow metabolism is usually linked to insulin resistance. This condition reduces the cell's ability to absorb glucose, leading to a constant craving for sugar and carbs. In that case, you will need to intake drinks or food high in sugar and carbs and your body will most likely convert it to extra fat. 

For insulin balance, restrain the intake of refined sugar and carbs. 

6. Constipation

Slow metabolism impacts bowel transit time. The digestional tract is affected by slow metabolism in the manner of slowing digestion and possible constipation.

Physical activity and food choices can prevent constipation. Lessen cheese and milk products while increasing the intake of fiber-rich food, soups, and broths. 

7. Other slow metabolism sights that are caused by hypothyroid conditions

Body heat is generate with metabolism. Frequent feelings of cold are the manifestation of decreased body core temperature due to the hypothyroid condition. 

Thyroid disorder impacts the lower sex drive and menstrual problems. 

Simple laboratory tests can provide you the information about your reproductive, sex, and thyroid hormonal status and your doctor will advise you on the appropriate treatment.