What is metabolic health and why is everyone talking about it?
Metabolic health has become a buzzword in the wellness space, and for good reason! As more people begin to look beyond the scale and the aesthetic markers of health, there is a growing awareness that how our bodies function internally matters just as much as, if not more than, how we look externally. But what does metabolic health actually mean, and why is it an important indicator of overall health and longevity?
What is metabolic health?
Metabolic health refers to how well your body generates and uses energy, and is typically assessed by five key markers:
Waist circumference
Blood pressure
Fasting blood glucose
Triglyceride levels
HDL cholesterol levels
According to a 2019 study published in Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders, only 12% of American adults met the criteria for optimal metabolic health without pharmaceutical intervention. That means that almost 9 out of 10 adults have some level of metabolic dysfunction, even if they are not visibly overweight.
Why does metabolic health matter?
Metabolic dysfunction is at the root of many chronic conditions, including:
Type 2 diabetes
Heart disease
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Alzheimer's disease
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
However, even symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, skin issues, and poor sleep can be early warning signs of poor metabolic health. Addressing metabolic health means going deeper than symptom management though. It’s about building health and resilience at the cellular level, improving how our body processes and stores energy, manages inflammation, and regulates hormones.
Why has metabolic health gained so much popularity in the health and wellness space?
The diet and weight loss industry grows larger every year, yet the rates of obesity and chronic disease in America are higher than ever. The “quick fix” restrictive diet clearly does not work and fails to address the root causes of weight gain and metabolic dysfunction. Addressing metabolic health offers a science-backed, holistic approach that actually empowers individuals to take control of their health in a sustainable and meaningful way.
There is a root-cause focus instead of treating downstream effects. Metabolic health looks at why the system is out of balance
It is prevention oriented and prioritizes early intervention, long before chronic disease develops
The approach is integrative, incorporating nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, and emotional wellbeing
How Can I Support Metabolic Health Naturally?
The good news is you don’t need expensive tests or trends to start improving your metabolic health. Simple, low-cost lifestyle shifts can make a huge impact.
Eat whole foods rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats
Prioritize strength training to build muscle, a key driver of insulin sensitivity and longevity
Manage stress through breath, mindfulness, or time spent in nature
Get high-quality sleep, aiming for 7–9 hours per night
Take movement breaks throughout the day
Metabolic health is not just another wellness trend - It is a fundamental approach to understanding and optimizing our overall well being. By looking deeper into how our body operates, we can unlock better energy, mood, and longevity.
Ready to support your metabolic health in a sustainable, holistic way? Check out our metabolic health coaching program, designed to address all pillars of metabolic health and create meaningful change towards a fuller, more energetic life.
Sources:
Good Energy: The Surprising Connection Between Metabolism and Limitless Health
Physical Activity/Exercise and Diabetes: A Position Statement of the American Diabetes Association
