Metabolism- Things you need to know

New Haven (WTNH) - Fitness expert Lisa Lynn was here this morning to explain what we need to know about metabolism, which plays a key role in getting and keeping your body in shape.

Here are some things that Lisa says will slow your metabolism:

Alcohol- Alcohol stops fat loss dead in its tracks. Everyone knows someone who is has skinny legs and a huge belly- the culprit is alcohol. Not to mention that it will keep you in bed later and not make you feel well, so you are less inclined to get to the gym.

Not exercising frequently enough- Many people think that exercising 2-3 times a week is enough. It may help you get in better shape than doing nothing at all, but it won't do much for real fat loss. Try to do something every day. Anything, no matter how small or quick, is always better than doing nothing.

Eating the wrong things at the wrong times- Eating what you want when you want not only makes you fatter, it can also severely impair your metabolism. To correct this, eat specifically for your goals.

For more information, see Lisa's weight loss kit at www.lisalynnfitness.com. It comes with a specific food list and meal plan with specific meal timing to correct this issue. Not all diet plans will do this. Look for meal plans and foods that will correct the issue, not plans that you " like" the foods on per say. Most times we chose the plans that allow us to keep making the same mistakes over and over, and that's usually what we need to work on, not get permission to keep doing.

Here are the three surprises Lisa says will rev up your metabolism quickly and effectively:

Surprise Number One:

Squats burn up to three times more calories than previously thought according to the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. They are great for toning and firming up the legs fast! You can use weight or not, and they still work great! If you don't use weight, aim for higher repetitions such as 50 reps, or even better, do them as a drill for one minute straight. Every workout should have squats in them. Squats burn the most calories and they tone more muscles than any other exercise. Ladies, don't worry- they will not bulk your legs unless you use very heavy weight consistently. Go for 2- 3 sets of 25 reps, or 1 big set of 75- 100 reps.

Surprise Number Two:

That 30 minute jog or hard core cardio session may not matter as much as you think. What's more important is your calorie loss when you're not exercising. Intense weight training elevates your metabolism for up to 36 hours, so life those weights! Ladies, get off the cardio and start lifting weights 2- 3 times a week. It won't add bulk if you train correctly- if you need help, e-mail Lisa! Lifting weights will make you stronger fast, you will feel better right away and your body will tone up immediately- not to mention how many extra calories you will burn for 36 hours after your weight workout.

Surprise Number Three:

Drinking a high quality whey protein shake will boost your metabolism by 25%! Studies have shown that people lose more weight and keep it off by drinking a protein shake every day. It will suppress your appetite, making sticking to your diet easier. Whey also supplies your body with the best quality protein for long term health and anti-aging. They are delicious, easy and they cost much less than any other healthy snack you can buy. If you're serious about not only losing weight, get on a high quality protein shake.

Buyer beware- not all whey shakes are created equal- in fact, most of the shakes on the market today are worse than drinking Yoo-Hoo, but due to lots of expensive marketing they will appear to be a miracle worker. Be sure to buy a high quality shake.

Feel free to e-mail Lisa at www.lisalynnfitness.com if you need more information on this topic. Mention that you saw this segment on WTNH and receive $10.00 off your order!