It's no secret that as women age, things slow down. A woman's metabolism - or the amount of calories she burns each day - is one of first to change. But, there are ways to boost your metabolism without making radical changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Twenty Something

In your 20s, women add both fat and muscle to their bodies. Metabolism is high and flexibility is good. But if you don't already exercise, now is the time to start. Problems with the thyroid gland - and the onset of thyroid disease - may occur at this age. Thyroid hormones regulate cell metabolism, which affects weight.

30s-40s

With each decade, basal metabolic rate drops 4 to 5 percent and the percentage of lean muscle tissue in your body decreases while fat increases. Thyroid disease can peak in the 30s. By age 40, an estimated 10 percent of women have a thyroid problem. Exercise regularly. Even five to 10 pounds can increase your risk of significant health problems.

50s-60s

By age 51, most women have hit menopause and estrogen levels start plummeting. With the decrease comes an increase in weight gain. Studies show that people over 60 can raise their resting metabolic rate by as much as 10 percent with rigorous exercise.

Sterling Silver

After 70, weight gain slows, but carrying extra pounds in the abdominal area increases your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. Six months on an exercise program can produce benefits for the elderly that are the equivalent of being 20 years younger.