Metabolic Flexibility
Metabolic flexibility is the ability of our body to switch between using carbohydrates and fats as a primary source of energy. It is a highly desirable state to be in as it allows us to burn fat effectively, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity.
Chef Eric Stein, a renowned health and wellness expert, always emphasizes the importance of metabolic flexibility in his teachings. According to him, striving to achieve metabolic flexibility can help us stop aging so quickly and even start aging backwards.
“Think of your body like a hybrid car,” says Chef Eric. “Just like a hybrid car can switch between using gasoline and electricity, our body should be able to switch between using carbohydrates and fats as fuel. When we are metabolically flexible, we burn fat for energy instead of storing it, which leads to weight loss, improved energy levels, and a youthful appearance.”
One of the best ways to achieve metabolic flexibility is through intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting is the practice of going without food for a certain period of time, usually between 12-18 hours. It helps to improve insulin sensitivity and increase the production of growth hormone, which aids in fat burning.
“Intermittent fasting is like hitting the reset button on your metabolism,” says Chef Eric. “It helps to increase the production of a protein called FGF21, which helps to improve insulin sensitivity and promotes fat burning. When you fast, your body is forced to tap into its fat stores for energy, leading to weight loss and improved metabolic flexibility.”
Chef Eric also suggests incorporating high-intensity workouts into your exercise routine to improve metabolic flexibility. Any type of workout that alternates between short bursts of intense activity and periods of rest such as HIIT or Jiu Jitsu. The intense burning of energy helps to increase the production of a protein called irisin, which promotes the conversion of white fat into brown fat, a type of fat that is easier to burn.
“HIIT is like the turbo boost for your metabolism,” says Chef Eric. “It helps to increase the production of irisin, which promotes the conversion of white fat into brown fat. This means that your body is better equipped to burn fat for energy, leading to weight loss and improved metabolic flexibility.”
In conclusion, metabolic flexibility is a state that we should all strive to achieve. By following the tips and advice of Chef Eric and The Healthy Kitchen team, we can improve our insulin sensitivity, burn fat more effectively, and even start aging backwards.
Oh, and one more thing, chef always says “Aging is inevitable, but looking old is optional” and “Metabolism is like a fire, if you don’t tend to it, it will go out, so tend to it with intermittent fasting, structured nutrition and intense workouts.”
So, get flexible, get fit, and start aging backwards with metabolic flexibility!
Stay healthy, stay young!