ASK BONNIE for December 1999

Question:

I have a very low metabolism, I can exercise 2-3 hours a day and eat anywhere from 800 to 1000 calories a day. I am 5ft 3in. I am 31 years old and have had 6 children. I am 15-20 pounds overweight that I cannot lose. I have tried every diet. Can you help?

Answer:

"Slow Metabolism" is really an indication of a body out of balance. Too little magnesium and zinc (75% of all Americans are at some point deficient in one or both of these) can cause a suppressed metabolism. Not enough protein or fat can cause a suppressed metabolism. An imbalance of protein/carbo/fat (especially too much carbo) can slow down the metabolism, as can food sensitivities. I have never had a person not "fix" their slow metabolism by correcting the underlying imbalance(s). It is important to look at the individual needs to determine causation. I look at complete medical and health history, a food diary, list of current medications, dietary supplements, and recent Bloodwork to determine the imbalances.