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At what age does metabolism slow down?

Author

Rachel Ellis

Published Jan 23, 2026

For many people, the term metabolism really means metabolic rate — the speed at which your body burns calories to keep its basic functions running. Your metabolic rate does change during your early life, but it plateaus between the ages of 20 and 60, and only decreases by around 1% per year after that.

At what age does metabolism peak?

Researchers found that metabolism peaks around age 1, when babies burn calories 50 percent faster than adults, and then gradually declines roughly 3 percent a year until around age 20.

Does metabolism really slow down with age?

As we age, our metabolism slows and the rate at which we break down food decreases by 10 percent each decade after age 20. Metabolism is the amount of energy (calories) your body uses to maintain itself.

Does your metabolism slow down after 25?

The data suggest that our metabolisms don't significantly decline again until after age 60. The slowdown is a little less than 1 percent a year, but once you reach your 90s, you'll need roughly 25 percent fewer calories every day than someone in midlife.

At what age does a woman's metabolism begin to slow down?

Over time, studies have shown that metabolic rate (how fast we burn calories) starts to slow down by 2 to 3 percent each decade, beginning in our 20s. It becomes more noticeable between ages 40 and 60.

30 related questions found

What are the signs of fast metabolism?

Fast metabolism symptoms or signs of high metabolism may include:

  • Weight loss.
  • Anemia.
  • Fatigue.
  • Elevated heart rate.
  • Feeling hot and sweaty often.
  • Feeling hungry often throughout the day.

Does exercise increase metabolism?

Cardiovascular exercise (running, swimming, aerobics, walking) stimulates your metabolism, helps you burn calories and can even temporarily suppress your appetite post-workout. But don't let cardio get all the metabolic-boosting glory.

Do you gain weight in early 20s?

Your weight will probably go up a little bit every year and it's totally normal. "Weight normally continues to increase annually in your 20s, mostly due to increase in body fat compared to teen years. Still, it's important to keep in mind that a normal weight is to have a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9," Dr. Sophocles says.

How do I speed up my metabolism?

9 Easy Ways to Boost Your Metabolism (Backed by Science)

  1. Eat Plenty of Protein at Every Meal. Eating food can increase your metabolism for a few hours. ...
  2. Drink More Cold Water. ...
  3. Do a High-Intensity Workout. ...
  4. Lift Heavy Things. ...
  5. Stand up More. ...
  6. Drink Green Tea or Oolong Tea. ...
  7. Eat Spicy Foods. ...
  8. Get a Good Night's Sleep.

What is your metabolic age?

Your metabolic age is how your basal metabolic rate (BMR), or how many calories your body burns at rest, compares to the average BMR for people of your chronological age in the general population.

What foods decrease metabolism?

Check out which surprising foods are slowing your metabolism, and instead, stock up on The 7 Healthiest Foods to Eat Right Now.

  • Refined Grains.
  • Alcohol.
  • Conventional Produce.
  • Traditional Yogurt.
  • Fruit Juice.
  • Soda.
  • Restaurant Fried Food.
  • Farmed Beef.

What causes slow metabolism?

Research shows that your metabolism tends to slow down with age. Being less active, losing muscle mass and the aging of your internal components all contribute to a sluggish metabolism. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to fight aging from slowing down your metabolism.

Is high metabolism good?

Having a high metabolism has its benefits; people with a ​high metabolism​ tend to burn calories faster than people with a low metabolism. On the other hand, having a ​fast metabolism​ can make it challenging to gain weight or maintain a healthy diet.

What foods are high metabolism?

12 Metabolism-Boosting Foods to Aid Weight Loss (Infographic)

  • Fish & Shellfish. Metabolism-Boosting Powers: Fish (salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel) are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. ...
  • Legumes (Also known as beans) ...
  • Chili Peppers. ...
  • Lean Meats. ...
  • Low-Fat Milk. ...
  • Broccoli. ...
  • Lentils. ...
  • Oatmeal.

Which food have high metabolism?

Read on to discover 10 of the best metabolism boosting foods, along with some other ways to increase metabolic function.

  1. Eggs. Share on Pinterest Eggs are rich in protein and are a great option for boosting metabolism. ...
  2. Flaxseeds. ...
  3. Lentils. ...
  4. Chili peppers. ...
  5. Ginger. ...
  6. Green Tea. ...
  7. Coffee. ...
  8. Brazil nuts.

How can I stay skinny in my twenties?

Want to lose weight and keep it off for life? Focus on these 6 things

  1. Cut out the liquid calories. Your 20s are often a time of experimentation. ...
  2. Ditch the “d” word from your vocabulary. ...
  3. Throw out the scale. ...
  4. Focus on quality, not quantity.
  5. Set a physical activity intention. ...
  6. Think long term.

Do hips get wider in 20s?

No, you're not just imagining it: Your hips really do get wider as you get older, according to a new study. Even though most people stop growing in height by the time they hit age 20, researchers have found evidence that the hip bones can keep growing even as people enter their 70s.

Does your body change when you turn 20?

The science: A combination of metabolic changes, weight gain, and again, hormonal changes increases fat distribution in the thighs, hips, and bust region for women in their 20s. Most will achieve their highest basal metabolic rate by their early 20s, as our metabolism peaks and then declines.

Does running speed up metabolism?

The more intense your run, the more calories you burn. Running is one of the most effective ways to rev up your metabolism. While you don't have much control over your metabolic rate, aerobic activity, such as running on a regular basis, can temporarily increase your metabolism, which burns calories for energy.

How do I know my metabolism type?

Calculate Basal Metabolic Rate

Your basal metabolism rate is produced through the following basal metablic rate formula: Men: BMR = 88.362 + (13.397 x weight in kg) + (4.799 x height in cm) – (5.677 x age in years) Women: BMR = 447.593 + (9.247 x weight in kg) + (3.098 x height in cm) – (4.330 x age in years)

Is high metabolism genetic?

Metabolism is partly genetic and largely outside of one's control. Changing it is a matter of considerable debate. Some people are just lucky. They inherited genes that promote a faster metabolism and can eat more than others without gaining weight.

Can you have a fast metabolism and not be skinny?

A fast metabolism does not necessarily lead to thinness. In fact, studies show that people with overweight/obesity often have fast metabolisms. Their bodies need more energy to keep basic body functions going.

How do you fix a slow metabolism?

9 Easy Ways to Boost Your Metabolism (Backed by Science)

  1. Eat Plenty of Protein at Every Meal. Eating food can increase your metabolism for a few hours. ...
  2. Drink More Cold Water. ...
  3. Do a High-Intensity Workout. ...
  4. Lift Heavy Things. ...
  5. Stand up More. ...
  6. Drink Green Tea or Oolong Tea. ...
  7. Eat Spicy Foods. ...
  8. Get a Good Night's Sleep.

Can you change your metabolism?

"You can manipulate your metabolism to a degree," says Dr. Lee. "It is often a small change that may help you burn more calories. That, along with adopting a healthier diet and making sure you get enough exercise, may give people the extra push they need to lose and maintain weight." For example: Pick up the pace.

Is it easier to gain or lose weight?

For most people, it's easier to gain muscle than to lose weight, but you should still focus on fat loss before trying to gain muscle. This is especially important if you're overweight or obese. There are many health risks associated with obesity that are far more urgent than building muscle mass.