3 common metabolism myths

The almighty metabolism -- you know, that little thing that determines how many calories you burn every day just being alive? Like millions of women, I've bemoaned mine at times (even if it was the brownies and pizza I ate, not a glitch in my body's calorie-burning engine, that caused a 2-pound weight gain). Still, as basic human functions go, the metabolism is fraught with misconceptions and a dizzying amount of advice. Just Google the word and you'll find nearly 45 million results, and lots (and lots) of ways to kick it up, speed it up, jump-start it, and more. Here, the fact and fiction behind the folklore.

1.  Dieting slows down your metabolism, making it harder to keep weight off.
TRUE. It may not seem fair (at all), but for every pound you lose, your resting metabolism drops by about 2 to 10 calories a day. Lose 10 pounds, and you now have to eat 20 to 100 fewer calories a day to maintain your trimmer physique (not factoring in exercise). However, you can prevent this maddening metabolic slip by maintaining muscle mass through cardio and strength-training. Try the 250/250 split: Cut 250 calories a day from your diet and burn 250 through exercise to lose fat and keep your metabolism revved. Here are some simple weight loss tricks to lose those last 10 pounds.

2.  PMS cravings are related to a boost in metabolism before your period.
TRUE. Finally, you can justify that giant sandwich you just inhaled. During the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle (the day after ovulation to the first day of your period), you get a metabolic boost that can equal almost 300 calories a day, which is why you're so darn hungry. But you can use this time to your weight loss advantage.  Keep a journal of what you eat (and crave) and look for lower calorie subs. For instance, if ice cream is your PMS thing, try sorbet or fat-free yogurt mixed with berries and a few dark chocolate chips instead. Check out these delicious smoothies that flatten your belly.

3.  Celery is a "negative-calorie food" because digesting it uses up more calories than it provides.
FALSE. Celery does have valid health benefits. For example, it contains compounds that can reduce blood pressure. However, the thermic effect of this veggie (i.e., the calories your body burns as it processes meals, snacks, and beverages) accounts for only about half a calorie, and as a celery rib has about 6 calories, the math just doesn't add up. The reality: "Negative-calorie foods" are just wishful thinking. But celery is an ultra-low-calorie way to fill up, so it's a good dieting tool. But it's not magic. Start shopping smarter with our healthiest food finder.


More tips on how to live well:
Flat Belly Diet! Breakthrough Science, Real Life Results
End Your Insomnia and Other Sleep Problems
Get Motivated to Slim Down
6 Habits to Save Your Life


[photo credit: Getty Images]
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Want more from Liz? Check out Flat Belly Diet to slim your tummy.