In 2024, we’re all more aware than ever of the impact poor blood sugar control can have on our hunger, energy levels and overall health. But, while important, our body’s ability to break down sugar and manage its presence in the blood is just one part of a bigger system – our metabolism.

The world of metabolic health and ‘boosting’ our metabolisms has a murky past when it comes to diet culture, but having a healthy, functioning metabolism is still important for overall wellbeing.

But what do we mean when we talk about a ‘healthy’ metabolism? And if you’re worried about the state of your metabolism, are there any key signs of a healthy metabolism that can set your mind at ease? Dr Luke Powles, associate clinical director at Bupa Health Clinics, explains all. 

Before we get started, let’s establish exactly what we’re talking about when we say ‘metabolism’. While many people believe metabolism to be a measure of the speed at which the body burns calories, that’s not quite true. Instead, your metabolism describes the way your body uses food and nutrients to produce energy and how your cells utilise that energy.

A healthy metabolism, therefore, means your body is creating and using energy in an optimal way. “Having a healthy metabolism means that your body can effectively digest and absorb nutrients from the food you eat in a way that keeps your blood sugar, blood fat, insulin and inflammation at healthy levels,” Dr Powles explains.

While there’s no exact ‘measure’ of metabolism – ie you can’t give it a numerical value – measuring the areas that are impacted by our metabolic function can give health professionals a good idea of whether your metabolism is functioning well.  

“During routine check-ups or when screening for specific health conditions, health professionals may conduct a series of tests and measurements to gain insights into your metabolic health,” Dr Powles explains. “These assessments may include measuring blood sugar levels, analysing your blood lipid profile (the levels of different fats in the blood like cholesterol and triglycerides) and checking your blood pressure and waist circumference.

“By considering these various factors collectively, health professionals can provide you with an evaluation of your metabolic health.” 

A healthy metabolism is about so much more than weight management, although that’s one of the primary reasons it gets discussed. In reality, the state of your metabolism can have a wide-reaching impact on your health, which is why taking care of yours is so important.

“An efficient metabolism is important as it’s needed for taking the nutrients from your diet and turning it into energy your body needs to function properly,” Dr Powles explains. “Maintaining a healthy metabolism can reduce your risk of developing chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and certain cancers, and it contributes to your continuous energy levels throughout the day, allowing you to feel your best and tackle daily activities.”

Dr Powles continues: “As you age, your metabolic rate naturally declines, but by having a balanced lifestyle with proper nutrition and regular exercise can help moderate this process.” 

Alongside having healthy readings of the factors mentioned above (for more information on what your readings should look like, you can check out our guide to taking care of your metabolic health), there are several key signs that your metabolism is working as it should.

Signs of a healthy metabolism include:

• Maintaining a weight that’s healthy for your height (eg your weight does not fluctuate)
• Feeling energised throughout the day (eg no extreme highs or lows)
• Eating a well-balanced diet rich with protein, fruit and vegetables with limited cravings for high-sugar or fatty foods
• Having enough energy to exercise regularly
• Possessing a clear, functioning mind

Ultimately, because your metabolism affects almost every system in the body – every cell needs energy, after all – most of the signs of a healthy metabolism are simply feeling well.

However, if you have a reason to be concerned about your metabolic health – perhaps you’re always tired or have lots of cravings – it’s worth visiting your GP, even if some of the signs above also apply to you. They can take a closer look and make sure there’s nothing going on behind the scenes. 

Images: Getty