Metabolic Health – It’s Not All About Diet. Three Lifestyle Factors You Need To Know About

Oct 15, 2024 | Energy, Hormones, Immune System, Nutrition, Pregnancy, Weight Management, Wellness

We are living in a global metabolic health crisis – and it’s not just about diet, our modern lifestyles are putting us at risk too.

This epidemic is silently growing.  From high cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin resistance, and elevated HBA1C to rising rates of obesity and diabetes. These are all warning signs that our metabolic health is failing.  Metabolic dysfunction doesn’t just show up on blood tests—it affects your energy, mood, hormones, and overall vitality.

When it comes to supporting your metabolic health, diet is only one piece of the puzzle. While balanced meals that include 30 grams of protein, healthy fats, and whole-food fiber are essential, there’s so much more to consider.

 

Let’s talk about the lifestyle factors that are equally important, yet often overlooked:

 

 
  • Sleep: Lack of quality sleep isn’t just exhausting—it’s disrupting your metabolism. Inadequate sleep increases stress hormones like cortisol, which in turn raises blood sugar levels and makes your cells less responsive to insulin. Even just one night of poor sleep can lead to increased cravings and a higher likelihood of overeating the next day. Prioritizing 7-8 hours of restorative sleep each night helps your body reset, supports hormone balance, and makes you more resilient to stress.
  • Stress: Chronic stress is a metabolic disruptor. When you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol, which signals your liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream for quick energy. This was meant for short bursts of fight-or-flight situations, but in modern life, constant stress keeps blood sugar levels elevated, leading to insulin resistance over time. Finding ways to manage stress like deep breathing, yoga, or simply stepping outside for fresh air can help keep your metabolism on track.
  • Exercise: Movement is a powerful tool for blood sugar regulation. When you exercise, your muscles use glucose for energy, which lowers blood sugar levels and increases insulin sensitivity. But it’s not just about intense workouts—gentle movement like walking after meals can help regulate your blood sugar, while resistance training builds lean muscle, which enhances your body’s ability to metabolize glucose even when you’re at rest. Also, too little exercise can decrease insulin sensitivity.

If you’re only focusing on food, you’re missing half the picture. Achieving true metabolic wellness is about understanding how your sleep, stress, and movement habits work together to impact your health. Let’s break the cycle and reclaim our health—one habit at a time.

Hi I’m Natalie, a Registered Clinical Nutritionist, health influencer, blog writer & recipe creator. My own health complications prompted me to make positive diet & lifestyle changes, revitalize my health leading to a career change from the corporate world to nutritional medicine. I believe in a wholefoods approach to good health, focusing on simple strategies for modern, busy people.

Let's connect @nataliebradynutrition 

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The information on this website is not intended to replace the advice of your GP, a one on one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is not intended for self-diagnosis, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. I encourage you to make your own health care decisions based upon research and in partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. The entire content of this website is based on the opinions of Natalie Brady, a qualified Holistic Nutritionist, unless otherwise noted. Click here for term and conditions of services.

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