What are the 6 signs of slow metabolism

The common symptoms of slow metabolism mainly include weight gain, easy fatigue, dry skin, cold hands and feet, constipation, hair loss, etc. Metabolic rate is influenced by various factors such as age, hormone levels, muscle mass, dietary structure, and underlying diseases.

1. Weight gain

A decrease in basal metabolic rate can lead to a reduction in energy expenditure, and even with a constant diet, fat accumulation may still occur. Muscle tissue consumes more calories than adipose tissue, and a decrease in muscle mass further lowers metabolism. Long term sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate this phenomenon.

2. Easy to fatigue

When the energy conversion efficiency of cells decreases, the body cannot effectively utilize nutrients to produce energy. Hypothyroidism is a common pathological cause that can lead to systemic metabolic delay. Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can also affect daytime energy levels.

3. Dry skin

Slow metabolism can affect the shedding of the stratum corneum and oil secretion of the skin. When blood circulation is poor, the nutrients obtained by the skin may decrease, leading to problems such as flaking and itching. The dry climate in winter can exacerbate this symptom.

4. Cold hands and feet

Poor peripheral blood circulation is a typical manifestation of slowed metabolism. Insufficient thyroid hormone can lead to abnormal vasoconstriction function. Anemia caused by iron deficiency can also reduce the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood and worsen the coldness of the limbs.

5. Constipation

Slow intestinal peristalsis can lead to prolonged residence time of food residues in the colon. Insufficient intake of dietary fiber and insufficient water intake are common causes. Some medication side effects or imbalanced gut microbiota may also affect bowel frequency.

6. Hair loss

Prolonged hair follicle cell renewal cycle can lead to increased hair loss. Insufficient protein intake can affect keratin synthesis. Hormonal changes in postpartum or menopausal women, as well as certain autoimmune diseases, may cause abnormal hair loss. Improving metabolism requires comprehensive lifestyle adjustments. It is recommended to maintain regular exercise to increase muscle mass, choose foods rich in high-quality protein, B vitamins, and iron, and ensure sufficient daily water intake. To avoid excessive dieting leading to further metabolic decline, those with thyroid problems or severe symptoms should seek medical examination in a timely manner. Pay attention to keeping warm in winter to promote blood circulation, and managing stress levels can also help maintain normal metabolic function.