Your stress levels, sleep quality and fitness can move the needle, too.

We’ll cut to the chase and answer that last question first.

“That is because exercise can lower body fat and increase muscle mass,” Malin explains.

a photo of a person exercising while holding dumbbells

Photo: Getty Images

“The combination of aerobic exercise and weightlifting is likely better than either alone.

Unsure of exactly how to start?

to lower your blood sugar.