One thing I always say about getting older: “items have shifted during flight.” Penn and I are in fairly decent physical shape, but we have noticed a new development… we’re gaining weight in weird places. Early this year, we went out of town for a couple days and when Penn got back he was convinced someone messed with his lumbar support in his car. Turns out he just has “bread back” now. (A phrase we can thank the amazing show 30 Rock for.)
Some people call it a muffin top, I like to call it a frog wearing pants… but no matter what it is called, it wasn’t there until recently. As a woman who is aging, I get ads all the time about how to boost my metabolism. So in the spirit of our new podcast format, Laugh Lines, we invited Dr. Herman Pontzer, Professor of Evolutionary Anthropology and Global Health at Duke University to help us understand if your metabolism is something you can boost or hack in any way.
Two Categories of Metabolism-Boosting
Dr. Herman explained that as people age, they tend to gain weight in certain areas of their bodies, based on genetics. For example, studies show that fat distribution is similar among twins. So if Penn has “bread back” it is because that’s just what his body is programmed to do with extra fat. The most surprising thing, however, was that research shows metabolism remains steady through middle age, contrary to popular belief. So, the real question remains… Can you boost your metabolism?
“There are two categories of metabolism-boosting products,” explained Dr. Herman. “Those that don’t work… and those that are illegal.” Essentially, as sad as it is to say there is no way to hack your metabolism. The best thing to combat weight is to alter your diet and to exercise knowing that it can help fight inflammation and stress which can contribute to weight gain. Obesity itself is a modern problem. It is not common in hunter-gatherer tribes for example, which Dr. Herman has studied during fieldwork in northern Tanzania.
Are We Too Old For…
In our discussion, we touched on supplements, hormones, diet, and exercise to combat gaining weight as we age. We also discussed a very important question at the end of our show: Are we too old for all-inclusive resorts? (I feel pressured to overindulge to get my money’s worth from all those drinks!) As well as, my endorsement for everyone to get pelvic floor therapy. (Maybe that will be a future episode!)
Listen to the show and don’t forget to call-in to us on the Laugh Line at 323-364-3929. We’re so happy you’re here with us as we explore this new podcast. You can also learn more about Dr. Herman Pontzer and his latest book here.
