Better Homes and Gardens

Super charge your metabolism

The M factor
Simply put, metabolism is the amount of energy (kilojoules) your body needs to function. About 70 per cent of those kilojoules are used for basic functions, such as breathing and blood circulation. About 20 per cent is fuel for physical activity, including working out, fidgeting, walking and even holding your body upright while standing. The remaining 10 per cent helps you digest what you eat (yes, eating burns kilojoules!). The trouble starts when you consume more kilojoules than your body needs, because that’s when you pack on the pounds.

Photo by Getty Images Nov 11, 2011