The Metabolism Advantage

August 21, 2006
Age-related weight gain is whittled down to size in this guide to boosting metabolism. Berardi's (Scrawny to Brawny
) formula is basic: diet, exercise and supplements to build muscle and burn calories. He relates a common scenario: with age come sedentary lifestyles, convenience foods and increased stress. While many people actually eat less as they age, Berardi says, at the end of their 20s they begin to lose five to 10 pounds of muscle each decade. The results: weight gain, free radical damage and greater risk for serious health conditions. He points out that eating fewer calories is self-defeating, while eating more of the right foods at the right time and targeted supplementation increase metabolism even for those genetically disposed to lower rates. Since muscle burns calories most efficiently, exercise is the core of the program. Berardi, who has trained professional athletes, is a congenial coach, but the five hours per week of strength training (weights) and cardio workouts may be an obstacle for those not already exercising regularly. Still, Berardi provides tools for keeping on point—meal plans, recipes, routines and options to customize—and his promise of never counting calories again just might motivate readers to invest in a gym membership.