If you’re struggling to lose weight despite a healthy diet and regular exercise, your metabolism could be the problem. Metabolism is the process by which your body converts food into energy.

A slow metabolism means your body is burning fewer calories than it should be, making it harder for you to lose weight. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to give your metabolism a boost and start seeing results. Here are five ways to rev up your metabolism:.

1. Increase Your Protein Intake

Protein is an essential macronutrient that helps build and repair tissues in your body, including muscle.

It also has a higher thermic effect than other macronutrients, meaning your body burns more calories digesting protein than it does digesting carbohydrates or fats. As a result, increasing your protein intake can help boost your metabolism and help you lose weight.

Studies have shown that a high-protein diet can increase metabolism by up to 100 calories per day, which can add up to significant weight loss over time.

Aim to include a source of protein in every meal and snack, such as chicken, fish, eggs, tofu, or Greek yogurt.

2. Build Muscle with Strength Training

Muscle is more metabolically active than fat, meaning it burns more calories at rest. Building muscle through strength training can increase your metabolism and help you burn more calories throughout the day.

Incorporate resistance exercises, such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats, into your workout routine.

Don’t be afraid to lift heavy weights. Contrary to popular belief, lifting heavy weights won’t bulk you up like a bodybuilder.

Instead, it will help you build lean, strong muscles that boost your metabolism and help you look and feel your best.

Related Article 10 Habits to Speed Up Your Metabolism

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking water is essential for overall health, and it can also help boost your metabolism. Studies have shown that drinking water can increase your metabolic rate by up to 30% for about an hour after drinking it.

This effect is known as water-induced thermogenesis.

Drinking cold water can also have a small calorie-burning effect, as your body must work to warm up the water to body temperature.

Aim to drink at least eight cups of water per day, and add a squeeze of lemon or lime for flavor and extra metabolism-boosting benefits.

4. Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough quality sleep is essential for overall health, and it can also affect your metabolism. Lack of sleep can disrupt hormones that control appetite and metabolism, leading to weight gain and a slower metabolism.

Make sure to get seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep every night to give your body the rest it needs to function at its best.

Practice good sleep hygiene by avoiding caffeine and electronics before bed, and keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.

5. Stay Active Throughout the Day

In addition to regular exercise, staying active throughout the day can also help boost your metabolism and burn more calories. Aim to take breaks and move around every hour if you have a sedentary job.

Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk or bike instead of driving, and do household chores like cleaning and gardening to keep your body moving.

Even small amounts of activity can add up and make a big difference in your metabolism and overall health.