Got some answers, since I have been on Toprol XL for 20 years, at the ripe old age of 46.
Beta blockers DO slow the metabolism, something they are NOT quick to tell you when you are put on them. My problem is chronic tachycardia, with a natural resting heart rate of about 140. Since I am so revved up, the beta blocker only bump my heart rate down to 80 BPM. A resting heart rate of 60 is too low on the average person, since it is common among athletes.
I have kept my weight down to my normal 105, since I am a small person.
My own regimen includes cayenne supplements, twice a day. This is good for circulation as well.
I take the spoonful of honey and vinegar in warm water every morning. Gets me revved for the day. And when I feel like I am eating too many carbs, I use a carb blocker made from bean extract. It is called phase 2 .
Please get him back to your Md to see if he is on too many meds.