By Kara Carper, M.A. Nutrition Educator

Have you heard yourself saying the words "my metabolism started slowing down when I turned 30 (or 40, or 50, or 60) years old"? Or how about, "he can eat whatever he wants and never gains weight, his metabolism must be really high". What is this mysterious metabolism and how can we make sure ours is working at an optimal level?

There's a lot more to metabolism than calorie burning and weight loss. Metabolism refers to the physical and chemical processes in the body that use energy. More simply stated: metabolism = energy! Energy to digest the foods we eat, energy to use our muscles, energy for our brain and nervous system to function, and many other bodily functions.

Look no further. The supplement L-Carnitine provides the following benefits:

• Increased energy levels
• Increased fat burning
• Lowered cholesterol and triglycerides
• Heart health
• Increased endurance and exercise performance
• Reduced food cravings

Interested in hearing more about L-Carnitine and other safe metabolism enhancers? Download or listen to the January 31st "Dishing Up Nutrition" show called "Metabolism Boosting Supplements" with Dar, Christina and Robert Crayhon.

Want to know more ways to help boost your metabolism? Easy...download last weeks "Dishing Up Nutrition" show and listen to Cassie Weness, R.D. and Kara Carper, M.A. explain which foods and exercise really boost metabolism.

Start your weekend off right with a healthy, balanced breakfast and Dishing Up Nutrition. Tune every Saturday morning from 8 to 9 a.m. and listen to Dar, Wendy, Cassie and special guests explain the connection between what you eat and how you feel.

If you miss a show, remember you can listen anytime on our website.

Check out other classes that we teach throughout the Twin Cities.

Jump Start Your Metabolism

Balanced Foods for Balanced Moods

Gut Reaction: Restore Digestive Health Through Nutrition

Foods to Reduce Pain & Inflammation

Nutritional Solutions for Osteoporosis and

Managing the Blood Sugar Rollercoaster

Go to our website and scroll through the upcoming classes for dates and locations. Click on the class for specific location and registration information.

Nutritional Weight & Wellness wants to help you and your best friend stimulate your health and well-being. Together learn how to manage stress and anxiety, lose weight, increase energy and reduce your aches and pains.

Sign up together and each receive $35 off the registration. Offer expires May 2, 2009 but classes start next week. Some classes are filling up so call now and reserve your spots.