5 Bad Habits That Make You Gain Weight as You Age

"Eat too little"

To lose weight, calorie intake must be reduced, but eating too little is not advisable. Consuming less than the calories needed for basic biological functions impairs metabolic regulation and destroys muscle tissue that helps burn calories.

The recommended daily calorie intake for Korean adults is 2,500 calories for men and 2,000 calories for women. To lose weight, it is better to consume less than these amounts, but women should still intake at least 1,200 calories. Eating every 3 to 4 hours and having snacks within 430 calories in between meals can prevent hunger and overeating, as well as help maintain metabolic rate.

Eat a diet mainly consisting of white carbohydrates

Replacing white flour with whole grain flour and substituting white rice with mixed grain rice increases fiber intake and improves metabolism. There are also studies showing that people who consume more fiber tend to gain weight more slowly than those who do not. It is also important to consume fiber daily through fruits and vegetables.

Avoid cold water

Cold water helps boost metabolism more than lukewarm water. Drinking about six glasses of cold water daily can improve metabolism enough to help you lose approximately 2 kg in a year. The increase in metabolism occurs as the body warms the cold water to body temperature.

Insufficient intake of protein and iron

Our bodies need to maintain an appropriate amount of muscle to preserve strength and burn fat. Protein is a nutrient necessary for muscle creation, and iron is a nutrient that transports oxygen to muscles to burn fat. Especially for women, iron is lost every month during menstruation, so replenishing the lost amount can prevent a decline in metabolism.

"I don't even put caffeinated drinks in my mouth."

Caffeine acts as a stimulant for the central nervous system. According to a study in Japan, drinking a cup of tea or coffee containing caffeine daily increases metabolism by 12%. The catechin, which gives green tea its astringent taste, acts as an antioxidant and boosts metabolism.

I can't agree with cold waterㅜ

Some say lukewarm water is best, while others prefer cold water.

What is correct?