New Study Shows Simple Thermostat Adjustment Can Boost Metabolism

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A new study published by the American Diabetes Association shows something as simple as lowering your thermostat can jump start your metabolism, CBS 2's Kristine Johnson reported.

According to the study, sleeping in a cool, 66-degree room can rev up your metabolism and aid weight loss.

"This is a very interesting study. Obviously, the issue of how to improve metabolism is so important and everyone is looking for the answers," Endocrinologist Dr. Rifka Schulman said.

Experts say metabolism is the energy it takes to burn your daily calories; the faster your metabolic rate, the more calories you burn.

"In the end, it will result in what your weight is," Dr. Schulman said.

As Johnson reported, there are a number of surprisingly simple things you can do to speed up your metabolism.

"Yoga is actually an amazing way to boost your metabolism," nutritionist Nicolette Pace said.

Several studies show yoga can increase your metabolic rate by as much as 40 percent, CBS 2 reported.

Pace said getting massages can also give your metabolism a boost.

"It's calming down some of the stress hormones, the cortisol levels," Pace said. "So it tells the body to really maintain a better core metabolism and actually improve it."

Studies also show regular trips to a sauna can jump start your metabolism, as can eating certain spices like ginger and turmeric, CBS 2 reported.

"These types of herbs are frequently used to warm up the body and with that, you will get an elevation in your metabolic rate," Pace said.

"Not moving is probably the most harmful effect on metabolism," Dr. Schulman said.

But while all of the above are proven ways to increase metabolism, Dr. Schulman says nothing beats a good diet and exercise.

"There is not an easy way out and I would not wait for one," she said.

If you don't want to turn your air conditioner up, experts say drinking eight glasses of ice water a day may have a similar effect, Johnson reported.

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