{"id":71760,"date":"2025-04-02T13:23:09","date_gmt":"2025-04-02T13:23:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=71760"},"modified":"2025-04-02T13:23:09","modified_gmt":"2025-04-02T13:23:09","slug":"how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Improve Metabolic Flexibility?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#Metabolism_Metabolic_Health_And_Metabolic_Flexibility_Are_They_All_The_Same\" >Metabolism, Metabolic Health, And Metabolic Flexibility: Are They All The Same?\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#What_Is_Metabolism\" >What Is Metabolism?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#What_Is_Metabolic_Health\" >What Is Metabolic Health?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#Experts_use_five_parameters_to_assess_metabolic_health\" >Experts use five parameters to assess metabolic health.\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#What_Is_Metabolic_Flexibility\" >What Is Metabolic Flexibility?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#Why_Is_Metabolic_Flexibility_Important_For_Health\" >Why Is Metabolic Flexibility Important For Health?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#This_flexibility_might_allow_us_to_4\" >This flexibility might allow us to (4):\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#What_Are_The_Signs_Of_Metabolic_Inflexibility\" >What Are The Signs Of Metabolic Inflexibility?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#Some_common_signs_of_metabolic_inflexibility_include_5_6\" >Some common signs of metabolic inflexibility include (5, 6):<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#What_Factors_Contribute_To_Metabolic_Inflexibility\" >What Factors Contribute To Metabolic Inflexibility?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#What_Foods_Support_Better_Metabolic_Flexibility\" >What Foods Support Better Metabolic Flexibility?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#Can_Exercise_Improve_Metabolic_Flexibility\" >Can Exercise Improve Metabolic Flexibility?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#Is_metabolic_adaptation_a_real_thing\" >Is metabolic adaptation a real thing?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#How_does_intermittent_fasting_help_improve_metabolic_flexibility\" >How does intermittent fasting help improve metabolic flexibility?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#Do_you_get_more_metabolically_flexible_when_you_lose_weight\" >Do you get more metabolically flexible when you lose weight?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#What_is_metabolic_belly\" >What is metabolic belly?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#The_Bottom_Line\" >The Bottom Line<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metabolic flexibility is our body&#8217;s ability to switch gears between burning carbs (glucose) and burning fat for energy. A good metaphor is to think of it like a car that can change between gasoline and electric power as energy sources.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=How_To_Improve_Metabolic_Flexibility\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-2.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research has discovered that improving metabolic flexibility can:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Boost health<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Improve insulin sensitivity<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support overall well-being<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Promote weight management<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Metabolism_Metabolic_Health_And_Metabolic_Flexibility_Are_They_All_The_Same\"><\/span><strong>Metabolism, Metabolic Health, And Metabolic Flexibility: Are They All The Same?\u00a0<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We have too many terms with similar words, and many people may wonder if they\u2019re all the same. The straight answer is no, they\u2019re not.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing the difference is essential for determining what aspects we can improve and how metabolic flexibility might enhance our overall health.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Metabolism\"><\/span><strong>What Is Metabolism?\u00a0<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/signs-of-slow-metabolism\/\"><b>Metabolism<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> involves all the complex chemical processes that sustain life in our body.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These types of metabolisms are processes that scientists have categorized as anabolism and catabolism (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/body\/21893-metabolism\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anabolism, simply put, is the process of building up. It includes all the body&#8217;s processes that synthesize complex molecules from simpler ones. An example is the creation of endogenous protein from amino acids we get from our diet.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the other hand, catabolism is the breakdown process. In this process, our body breaks down complex molecules, such as carbohydrates or fats, to release energy and power our daily activities and cellular processes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The efficiency of these metabolic processes, especially the in vs. out energy balance, is essential for weight management and overall health.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=How_To_Improve_Metabolic_Flexibility\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-67758\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/high-protein-low-carb-diet-meal-plan-1024x576.png\" alt=\"How To Improve Metabolic Flexibility\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/high-protein-low-carb-diet-meal-plan.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/high-protein-low-carb-diet-meal-plan-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/high-protein-low-carb-diet-meal-plan.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/high-protein-low-carb-diet-meal-plan-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Metabolic_Health\"><\/span><strong>What Is Metabolic Health?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There isn\u2019t a universally accepted definition for metabolic health. However, having good metabolic health means having specific parameters within the normal range.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Experts_use_five_parameters_to_assess_metabolic_health\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experts use five parameters to assess metabolic health.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><b>These 5 metabolic parameters include:<\/b><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/yoga-poses-to-avoid\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blood pressure<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blood cholesterol<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Triglyceride levels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Waist circumference<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fasting blood sugar levels<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having one or more parameters off the normal range may indicate a person suffers from metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/metabolic-syndrome\/about-metabolic-syndrome\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Metabolic_Flexibility\"><\/span><strong>What Is Metabolic Flexibility?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our body\u2019s primary energy source is carbohydrates, but we can also use fats.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regarding <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/metabolic-flexibility\/\">metabolic flexibility<\/a>, we mean our body&#8217;s ability to efficiently change between these energy sources.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This quick adaptation to different energy sources benefits optimal health, significantly impacting various levels.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We always combine both energy sources, but the proportions vary simultaneously.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A metabolically flexible person can efficiently use more carbohydrates (mainly glucose) or more fats as fuel, depending on the situation. For example, when we\u2019re well-fed, after a meal rich in carbs, we have plenty of glucose to use as energy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But during fasting periods, either physiologically while we sleep, during intentional fasting or starvation, or when we have a low-carb intake, our bodies need to turn more to fats for energy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This seamless switch, this type of adaptability is crucial for supporting optimal health and energy levels (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5513193\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/metabolism-confusion-meal-plan\/\">Metabolism Confusion Meal Plan: Does it Work for Weight Loss?<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Is_Metabolic_Flexibility_Important_For_Health\"><\/span><strong>Why Is Metabolic Flexibility Important For Health?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And what are the benefits of achieving metabolic flexibility?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let\u2019s dive in a little further\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our body&#8217;s adaptability to change efficiently between carbs and fats as an energy source is a vital cornerstone for overall health.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If we have metabolic flexibility, we can use different energy sources more efficiently, especially during fasting or low-carb intake.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"This_flexibility_might_allow_us_to_4\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This flexibility might allow us to (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinicproceedings.org\/article\/S0025-6196(22)00042-8\/fulltext\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">):\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have efficient energy for our daily activities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support our weight loss efforts and maintenance.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stabilize blood sugar levels, preventing blood sugar spikes and crashes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Potentially reduce our risk of chronic health issues including diabetes and heart disease.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conversely, metabolically inflexible people will struggle with this energy source transition.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>If you wish to free yourself from all the extra pounds that have been weighing you down for way too long, <a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=How_To_Improve_Metabolic_Flexibility\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">start using the BetterMe: Health Coaching app<\/a> and overhaul your entire life!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This inflexibility can lead to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weight gain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Type 2 diabetes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insulin resistance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Various health issues<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Storing excess glucose as fat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having difficulty using fat stores for energy<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_The_Signs_Of_Metabolic_Inflexibility\"><\/span><strong>What Are The Signs Of Metabolic Inflexibility?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When the body struggles to switch between carbohydrates and fats for energy, it experiences metabolic inflexibility, which may be associated with multiple health problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Some_common_signs_of_metabolic_inflexibility_include_5_6\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some common signs of metabolic inflexibility include (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/edrv\/article\/39\/4\/489\/4982126\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/obesity\/multimedia\/vid-20536756\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">):<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common mood swings or irritability<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constant cravings for sugary foods for a quick boost of energy levels.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constantly feeling tired even after sleeping an adequate amount of hours, you may feel tired and sluggish.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Difficulty concentrating, regular brain fog, and trouble focusing on simple tasks.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Struggle to lose weight regardless of the dietary changes and exercises you may tackle.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased insulin resistance (where insulin does not work correctly, letting glucose into cells and leading to higher blood sugar levels).\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you notice some of these symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is a good starting point. They can help you assess your metabolic health and strategies to improve your metabolic flexibility or determine what else might be the cause.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Factors_Contribute_To_Metabolic_Inflexibility\"><\/span><strong>What Factors Contribute To Metabolic Inflexibility?\u00a0<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Identifying common factors that contribute to metabolic inflexibility can help us take steps to improve it, preventing or reducing the risk of chronic diseases.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Insulin Resistance\u00a0<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Researchers have characterized insulin resistance as a reduced response of the body&#8217;s cells to insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is crucial for letting glucose into the cells and helping regulate blood sugar levels (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/obesity\/multimedia\/vid-20536756\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When our cells become insulin resistant, they don&#8217;t respond effectively to the hormone signals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cells that are resistant to insulin can cause:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Glucose build-up in the bloodstream<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Higher blood sugar levels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Struggles to effectively use glucose for energy<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased reliance on fat for fuel, even when it&#8217;s not necessary.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, the pancreas will try to \u201ccompensate\u201d for these high blood sugar levels by producing more insulin, which could lead to pancreatic problems later.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insulin resistance is a primary risk factor for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues, and it&#8217;s linked to obesity but also has genetic causes.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Chronic Stress<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic stress can significantly impact our metabolic health and reduce flexibility (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/11874-stress\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stress is a normal human response, crucial for survival, especially in fight-or-flight situations. Our reaction to stress helps our bodies adjust to new conditions, which can sometimes be positive.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, when stress becomes a pattern and stressors continue without relief, this chronic situation can hurt our health.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When we are stressed, our bodies release stress hormones like cortisol. If we suffer from chronic stress, high cortisol levels can promote visceral fat storage, which can eventually lead to insulin resistance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Reasons why BetterMe is a safe bet: a wide range of calorie-blasting workouts, finger-licking recipes, 24\/7 support, challenges that\u2019ll keep you on your best game, and that just scratches the surface! <a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=How_To_Improve_Metabolic_Flexibility\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Start using our app <\/a>and watch the magic happen.<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Sedentary Lifestyle<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A sedentary lifestyle contributes to metabolic inflexibility. When we&#8217;re inactive, our bodies can become less efficient at swapping between carbs and fats as energy sources.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being physically inactive can lead to muscle loss, reducing our metabolic rate, as muscle tissue requires more energy to maintain than other tissue types. Sedentary lifestyles can also contribute to insulin resistance, leading to higher blood sugar levels and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5899985\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle may diminish mitochondrial function.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The mitochondria are the structures responsible for energy production in cells. Impaired mitochondrial function might reduce the ability to burn calories efficiently.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/does-fasting-slow-metabolism\/\">Does Fasting Slow Metabolism?<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Foods_Support_Better_Metabolic_Flexibility\"><\/span><strong>What Foods Support Better Metabolic Flexibility?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now, you may be wondering how to reset your metabolism, and while there isn\u2019t a specific diet designed to improve metabolic flexibility, having a <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/flexitarian-diet-pros-and-cons\/\">balanced diet<\/a> packed with wholesome foods can be a good starting point, as this is a cornerstone for overall health while contributing to improving our metabolic flexibility.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Some of the best food groups we can prioritize to improve our metabolic flexibility include:<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Healthy fats<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nuts<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seeds<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avocados, olive oil, and other vegetable oils<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatty fish, including salmon, trout, mackerel, and tuna.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Lean protein-rich foods &#8211; including animal-based proteins such as:\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fish<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eggs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Poultry<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lean cuts of red meat<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Plant-based protein-rich foods include:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/is-tofu-vegan\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tofu<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beans<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pulses<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tempeh<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Fiber-rich foods such as:\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fruits<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vegetables<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whole grains\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_Exercise_Improve_Metabolic_Flexibility\"><\/span><strong>Can Exercise Improve Metabolic Flexibility?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being physically active is vital for overall health.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metabolic flexibility and weight loss can go hand in hand, as they play a pivotal role in boosting our body&#8217;s ability to efficiently switch between using carbohydrates and fats as energy sources (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5513193\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A good exercise routine that fits your schedule and that you enjoy is crucial. This way, we can build consistency in the long run. Ideally, this should include a combination of cardiovascular and strength exercises.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n    <section class=\"ad-select-gender\">\n        <div class=\"ad-select-gender-wrapper\">\n            <img class=\"ad-select-gender-image\" alt=\"MaleImage\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"297\" src=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/themes\/gridlove-child\/assets\/img\/ad\/MaleImage.webp\">\n    \n            <div class=\"ad-select-gender-text mobile-hide\">\n                <div class=\"ad-select-gender-desc\">Get your <span class=\"green f-600\">personal plan<\/span> according to your age and BMI<\/div>\n                <div class=\"ad-select-gender-title f-600\">\n                    Select your gender\n                <\/div>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=Shortcod2\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\" target=\"_blank\">Male<\/a>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=Shortcod2\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\" target=\"_blank\">Female<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n    \n            <img class=\"ad-select-gender-image\" alt=\"FemaleImage\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"297\" src=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/themes\/gridlove-child\/assets\/img\/ad\/FemaleImage.webp\">\n        <\/div>\n    \n        <div class=\"ad-select-gender-text desktop-hide mobile-block\">\n          <div class=\"ad-select-gender-desc\">Get your <span class=\"green f-600\">personal plan<\/span> according to your age and BMI<\/div>\n          <div class=\"ad-select-gender-title f-600\">\n            Select your gender\n          <\/div>\n          <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=Shortcod2\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\" target=\"_blank\">Male<\/a>\n          <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=Shortcod2\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\" target=\"_blank\">Female<\/a>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n<p><b>Some of the ways exercise can help us improve metabolic flexibility include:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Strength training to build muscle mass, a metabolically active tissue that will increase our calorie burn at rest and during exercise.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular exercise can improve insulin sensitivity, making our cells more responsive to insulin, thus reducing the risk of insulin resistance.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Working out may help us improve mitochondrial function, potentially resulting in more efficient energy production and metabolic flexibility.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exercise is also great for releasing stress and aiding in reducing chronic anxiety, which can hurt our mental well-being and impact metabolic health.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consistency is key, so if you struggle with adding regular physical activity into your routine these tips in mind:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take frequent breaks from sitting every 30-60 minutes.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Walk around for a few minutes or do simple squats, calf exercises, jumping jacks, push-ups, etc.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stand up more often, especially if you have a desk job. You can also consider using a standing desk or yoga ball.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Walk, bike, or take public transportation instead of driving when possible.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you drive, park at the far end of the lot. Sometimes, take the stairs instead of the elevator.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Making simple lifestyle changes and incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can improve your metabolic flexibility and overall health.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=How_To_Improve_Metabolic_Flexibility\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-66623\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lazy-girl-meal-plan-2-1024x640.png\" alt=\"How To Improve Metabolic Flexibility\" width=\"770\" height=\"481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lazy-girl-meal-plan-2.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lazy-girl-meal-plan-2-300x188.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lazy-girl-meal-plan-2.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lazy-girl-meal-plan-2-1472x920.png 1472w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lazy-girl-meal-plan-2.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><b>Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_metabolic_adaptation_a_real_thing\"><\/span><strong>Is metabolic adaptation a real thing?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metabolic adaptation is a real thing. Our bodies can adapt to lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise. If we consistently eat fewer calories or exercise less, our metabolism might slow because the body adapts to this situation. It\u2019s important not to make drastic changes to avoid metabolic adaptation through extreme dieting.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_intermittent_fasting_help_improve_metabolic_flexibility\"><\/span><strong>How does intermittent fasting help improve metabolic flexibility?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some claim intermittent fasting improves metabolic flexibility by training the body to switch more efficiently between carbs and fat for energy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During the prolonged fasting window, our body is \u201cforced\u201d to use stored fat for energy, while carbohydrates are the primary energy source during the eating window.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, long-term studies are still needed to understand how intermittent fasting diets affect metabolic health and whether you can use metabolic flexibility fasting strategies apart from the impacts of weight loss.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_you_get_more_metabolically_flexible_when_you_lose_weight\"><\/span><strong>Do you get more metabolically flexible when you lose weight?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Losing weight might help improve metabolic flexibility, but researchers have not confirmed this yet. Weight loss helps improve markers of metabolic health such as insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, waist circumference, etc. Nevertheless, achieving this weight loss while following a healthy diet and exercising is crucial to support these benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_metabolic_belly\"><\/span><strong>What is metabolic belly?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metabolic belly often refers to belly fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. Doctors commonly link \u201cmetabolic belly\u201d with conditions such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Improving <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/what-is-metabolic-flexibility\/\">metabolic flexibility<\/a> is said to help reduce insulin resistance and promote fat burning, thus reducing metabolic belly fat. At the very least, the recommended actions to improve metabolic flexibility (healthy diet, exercise, stress management, etc.) can contribute to belly fat loss, which can improve insulin sensitivity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2196&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=How_To_Improve_Metabolic_Flexibility\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-1.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Bottom_Line\"><\/span><strong>The Bottom Line<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metabolic flexibility is critical to overall health. It allows our bodies to switch efficiently between energy sources, promoting weight loss and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We can boost our metabolic flexibility by prioritizing a balanced diet, being physically active, and learning how to manage chronic stress.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Suppose you notice any signs of metabolic inflexibility such as lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, severe struggles to lose weight, regular mood swings, or irritability. In that case, you should consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Metabolic flexibility is our body&#8217;s ability to switch gears between burning carbs (glucose) and burning fat for energy. A good metaphor is to think of it like a car that can change between gasoline and electric power as energy sources.\u00a0 Research has discovered that improving metabolic flexibility can: Boost health Improve insulin sensitivity Support overall [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":71761,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"coauthors":[45],"class_list":["post-71760","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-nutrition"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How To Improve Metabolic Flexibility? - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover practical strategies to enhance your metabolic flexibility. Learn tips and techniques to boost your energy and optimize your health today!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, nofollow\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How To Improve Metabolic Flexibility?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover practical strategies to enhance your metabolic flexibility. Learn tips and techniques to boost your energy and optimize your health today!\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"#\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4866-how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1920\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"BetterMe\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"BetterMe\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"9 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"BetterMe\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/46a2559fa95a734cb81f6fc6a2c3f404\"},\"headline\":\"How To Improve Metabolic Flexibility?\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/\"},\"wordCount\":1829,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4866-how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility.png\",\"articleSection\":[\"Nutrition\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Metabolic flexibility is our body's ability to switch gears between burning carbs (glucose) and burning fat for energy. A good metaphor is to think of it like a car that can change between gasoline and electric power as energy sources.\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span data-sheets-root=\\\"1\\\"><\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Research has discovered that improving metabolic flexibility can:<\/span>\\r\\n<ul>\\r\\n \\t<li style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\" aria-level=\\\"1\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Boost health<\/span><\/li>\\r\\n \\t<li style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\" aria-level=\\\"1\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Improve insulin sensitivity<\/span><\/li>\\r\\n \\t<li style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\" aria-level=\\\"1\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Support overall well-being<\/span><\/li>\\r\\n \\t<li style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\" aria-level=\\\"1\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Promote weight management<\/span><\/li>\\r\\n<\/ul>\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><strong>Metabolism, Metabolic Health, And Metabolic Flexibility: Are They All The Same?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">We have too many terms with similar words, and many people may wonder if they\u2019re all the same. The straight answer is no, they\u2019re not.\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Knowing the difference is essential for determining what aspects we can improve and how metabolic flexibility might enhance our overall health.<\/span>\\r\\n<h3 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><strong>What Is Metabolism?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\\r\\n<a href=\\\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/signs-of-slow-metabolism\/\\\"><b>Metabolism<\/b><\/a><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\"> involves all the complex chemical processes that sustain life in our body.\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">These types of metabolisms are processes that scientists have categorized as anabolism and catabolism (<\/span><a href=\\\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/body\/21893-metabolism\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">).<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span styl ...\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/\",\"name\":\"How To Improve Metabolic Flexibility? - BetterMe\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4866-how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility.png\",\"description\":\"Discover practical strategies to enhance your metabolic flexibility. 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Learn tips and techniques to boost your energy and optimize your health today!","og_url":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/","og_site_name":"BetterMe Blog","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching","article_author":"#","og_image":[{"width":1920,"height":1200,"url":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4866-how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility.png","type":"image\/png"}],"author":"BetterMe","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@betterme","twitter_site":"@betterme","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"BetterMe","Est. reading time":"9 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/"},"author":{"name":"BetterMe","@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/46a2559fa95a734cb81f6fc6a2c3f404"},"headline":"How To Improve Metabolic Flexibility?","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/"},"wordCount":1829,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4866-how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility.png","articleSection":["Nutrition"],"inLanguage":"en-US","articleBody":"<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metabolic flexibility is our body's ability to switch gears between burning carbs (glucose) and burning fat for energy. A good metaphor is to think of it like a car that can change between gasoline and electric power as energy sources.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research has discovered that improving metabolic flexibility can:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Boost health<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Improve insulin sensitivity<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support overall well-being<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Promote weight management<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Metabolism, Metabolic Health, And Metabolic Flexibility: Are They All The Same?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We have too many terms with similar words, and many people may wonder if they\u2019re all the same. The straight answer is no, they\u2019re not.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing the difference is essential for determining what aspects we can improve and how metabolic flexibility might enhance our overall health.<\/span>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>What Is Metabolism?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/signs-of-slow-metabolism\/\"><b>Metabolism<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> involves all the complex chemical processes that sustain life in our body.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These types of metabolisms are processes that scientists have categorized as anabolism and catabolism (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/body\/21893-metabolism\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span styl ..."},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/","url":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/","name":"How To Improve Metabolic Flexibility? - BetterMe","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4866-how-to-improve-metabolic-flexibility.png","description":"Discover practical strategies to enhance your metabolic flexibility. 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