Are you working out daily, eating right, and still struggling with weight loss? You could have a slow metabolism.
Before we go any further, let’s define metabolism:
“Metabolism is the process by which your body converts what you eat and drink into energy.” -MayoClinic
Your metabolic rate is ruled mostly from genetics. However, you can boost your metabolism with the foods that you eat. Include the following foods in your diet if you are trying to lose weight.
Coffee
Coffee can provide you with more than just a morning energy boost! The global commodity increases heart rate, enhances alertness, and relaxes the air passages to boost your metabolism.
A study by Physiology and Behavior said that people who consumed regular coffee versus decaf had an increased metabolism of 16%. This does not mean you should rush out to the coffee shop for a frapaccino. Stick with black coffee with cinnamon to get the best results.
Green Tea
Green tea is a go-to beverage for few of us. However, if you are trying to burn fat than you should consider sipping a cup of green tea in the morning.
Green tea contains EGCG. The chemical can help you burn an extra 70 calories per day and decrease your blood sugar.
Make sure you choose organic sources. Green tea has been found to contain sodium fluoride. To make the tea, steep for 2 to 3 minutes at 185 Degrees Fahrenheit.
Chili Peppers
Capsaicin, the chemical in chili peppers can help boost your metabolism by increasing the number of calories and fat you burn.
Studies have shown that capsaicin can boost your metabolism an average of 8%. Try adding siracha or your favorite spicy sauce on your eggs and pasta.
Popular Chili Peppers with Capsaicin
- Jalapenos
- Habaneros
- Bell Peppers
- Cayenne Peppers
Protein Rich Foods
Your body does not only burn calories during exercise. You are also burning calories during digestion. This is called the thermic effect of food. Protein rich food burn more calories during digestion than any other food group.
- Protein: 20-35% of calories burned through processing
- Carbohydrates: 5-15% of calories burned through processing
- Fats: 0-5% of calories burned through processing
Lean Meat
Deficiencies in minerals can harm our body. Lean meat, such as chicken and turkey are rich in iron which can boost metabolism. Lean meat also induces the thermic effect, making our body work harder to digest our food.
Water
Drinking water has a long list of benefits for your body. One of the many reasons is boosting your metabolism. A study by the Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism found that drinking water increases your metabolism by 30%! This is more effective than caffeine and green tea.
Legumes and Pulses
Legumes and pulses such as beans, lentils, peanuts, and peas are high in protein. Foods that are high in protein require more effort for your body to digest. This means that you are burning more calories while digesting.
Legumes are pulses also have fiber and essential amino acids with metabolism boosting properties.
A Fitness 1440 Personal Trainer can give you advice on foods to boost your metabolism. We can work together to help you reach your fitness goals!