The importance of NEAT

NEAT stands for Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis. It encompasses all the energy we expend for everything we do in our daily lives that isn’t sleeping, eating, or sports-like exercise. This includes activities like walking, gardening, cleaning, and even fidgeting. NEAT plays a significant role in our overall energy expenditure and can have a substantial impact on weight management and overall health.

As we age, our metabolism tends to slow down, making it more challenging to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can further complicate weight management. This is where NEAT becomes particularly crucial. By incorporating more non-exercise activities into our daily routines, we can boost our metabolism and burn more calories, helping to offset age-related weight gain.

Here are some practical tips to increase your NEAT and promote a healthier lifestyle, especially for women in their 40s:

1. Take the Stairs: Instead of the elevator, opt for the stairs whenever possible. 
2. Walk Whenever You Can: Whether it’s a brisk walk around the neighborhood, walking your dog, or simply pacing while talking on the phone, incorporating more walking into your day is a great way to increase NEAT.
3. Stand More, Sit Less: Consider investing in a standing desk or finding opportunities to stand while working or watching TV. Standing burns more calories than sitting and can help keep your metabolism active.
4. Do Household Chores Yourself: Activities like vacuuming, mopping, and gardening not only keep your home tidy but also provide a good workout and increase NEAT.
5. Stay Active Throughout the Day: Break up long periods of sitting by taking short walks or doing light stretching every hour. Set a timer if necessary to remind yourself to move regularly.
6. Engage in Hobbies That Involve Movement: Whether it’s dancing, swimming, yoga, pickleball, golf, find activities you enjoy that keep you moving and engaged.
7. Park further away: When going places, always park the furthest away. While it may not seem like a lot, it adds up!

Incorporating more NEAT into your daily routine doesn’t require drastic changes but rather small, sustainable adjustments that can add up over time. By prioritizing movement and staying active throughout the day, women in their 40s can promote a healthier metabolism, manage their weight more effectively, and enjoy an overall improved quality of life.

In the month of June, I encourage you to practice getting in more NEAT.