Understanding Metabolic Age: A Guide to Boosting Your Wellness Routine

What is Metabolic Age?

Reaching a certain age doesn't necessarily mean your body has to slow down. This is where the idea of metabolic age becomes relevant. According to a report from a health source, metabolic age refers to how your basal metabolic rate (BMR)—the number of calories your body burns while at rest—compares to the average BMR of individuals in your age group. However, it is not a primary medical metric. Dr. Natasha Trentacosta, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine expert, notes that while metabolic age isn't a common topic in medical discussions, it can provide insights into how you measure up against peers of the same age.

Having a higher resting calorie burn than what is typical for your age can be a point of pride. Wellness expert Jacqueline Au, for instance, boasts a metabolic age of just 25 at 40 years old. If this concept intrigues you, here’s her essential five-step morning routine that she swears by.

1. Oil Pulling

1. Oil Pulling

When possible, choose cold-pressed coconut oil for oil pulling, as it tends to solidify and is less messy. To practice, take a spoonful of coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes. Afterward, spit it out into the toilet. Au emphasizes that regular oil pulling not only helps eliminate systemic toxins and reduce oral inflammation but also contributes to whiter teeth.

2. Face Ice Bath

2. Face Ice Bath

Timing is crucial for this step. Au advises performing the ice dunk for your face after oil pulling but before having breakfast. Prepare a bowl of ice and submerge your face for 20 to 30 seconds, repeating this for 2 to 3 rounds. This technique, according to Au, helps reduce puffiness, especially around the eyes, calms inflammation, enhances circulation for a refreshed skin appearance, and alleviates stress by triggering the Mammalian Dive Reflex.