The word metabolism describes the chemical process that happens within all living things that is essential to life. In a broad sense for humans, it is used to describe the process of attaining energy from the breakdown of food that an individual consumes. Once food is eaten, countless metabolic actions begin to take place within the body to convert that food into utilizable energy that fuels everything we do. One’s metabolic rate is determined by things such as weight, height, muscle mass and body fat levels. Generally speaking, the higher muscle mass one has, the faster one’s metabolism may be. Genetic factors can also play a role in one’s metabolic rate. Many believe that their inability to lose weight is due to a having a slow metabolism, and whilst there is little scientific evidence to support this claim, many individuals seek to boost their metabolism via dietary efforts. Whilst there is no guarantee this will yield benefit results in regard to increasing one’s metabolic rate to lose weight, metabolism boosting foods are still advisable as they will yield good results in regards to overall health. This article will detail great food options to that may be beneficial in boosting one’s metabolism, and definitely offer overall well-being.
Foods that Boost Your Metabolism
Berries
Berries, especially blueberries and raspberries, contain anthocyanin, a flavonoid that is known to help the body produce certain hormones that improve one’s metabolism, as well as lower glucose levels, and reduce cravings of hunger. Add to that the enormous nutritional value of berries, and you will see why these sweet fruits are an excellent option. Enjoy them as a snack, with cereal, or in a smoothy.
Almonds
Whilst almonds have a high calorie content, meaning that they should be consumed in moderation, they also contain essential fatty acids that help to boost your metabolism, as well as offer other great health benefits such as help you maintain a health heart. Eat them as a snack or add them to a healthy salad.
Chia Seeds
These small edible seeds offer a vast amount of nutritional benefits when consumed. Their positive impact on boosting metabolism stems from their high fiber, omega 3 and protein levels. Add these great seeds to smoothies, salads, or eat them on their own.
Beans
When seeking out metabolism boosting foods, a great and easy option comes in the form of beans. There is a wide variety available for consumption, and almost all will have high levels of fiber and protein, helping to boost your metabolism upon consumption. Beans can be enjoyed in numerous ways, either on their own or as part of a meal.
Fish
Fish, like many of the other foods on this list, are high in protein and omega 3 fatty acids. Most fish contain these useful nutrients, though some of the best sources include salmon, mackerel and tuna. When consumed as part of a balanced diet, you can and likely will notice many health boosting effects, including an increased metabolic rate. Enjoy a piece of baked fish with a side of fresh greens for a tasty and healthy meal.
Bone Broth
Whilst some may be put off by the idea of what is essentially carcass soup, making and consuming bone broth can offer great metabolism boosting benefits. Not only will the broth be packed full of protein and minerals, it will also have a high collagen content, which helps to maintain a healthy digestive system. All of these elements make this option a great choice for boosting metabolism and overall health.
Grapefruit
Consumption of grapefruit has many health benefits, including ones pertaining to metabolism. Grapefruit is known to lower insulin levels, have high amounts of vitamins (including vitamin c, essential to a well-functioning immune system), as well as having a high fiber content. All of these elements make grapefruit a great option in regards to foods that boost one’s metabolism. Eat as snack or add to a smoothy to easily consume this extremely beneficial food.
Leafy Greens
When searching for metabolism boosting foods, leafy greens are a great option as they also offer numerous health benefits when consumed. The high amount of fiber in leafy greens give them great metabolism boosting benefits, and most leafy greens (especially kale and spinach) contain high amounts of nutrients like iron and calcium, all of which is important to maintaining health. Leafy greens are best enjoyed as a side to lean meat or fish, though they can also be added to salads and smoothies to achieve a gratifying health boost.
Watermelon
Watermelon, like many fruit, has a high level of sugar (fructose). Whilst many see this as detrimental, when consumed as part of a balanced diet, one will reap all of the benefits and avoid the negative aspects. Watermelons contain high levels of arginine, an amino acid that is believed to help speed up one’s loss of fat and increase muscle mass, making watermelon great at boosting metabolism. The easiest way to consume this wonderful fruit is to cut a slice and eat it as a delicious and healthy snack.
Hot Peppers
Hot peppers get their perceived heat from a chemical known as capsinoids. These chemicals, when consumed, work to alert one’s hormones, increase one’s heart rate and speed up how quickly one’s body burns calories and fat, making them a great food for boosting metabolism. Add them to your favorite meal for an easy metabolic boost.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate (or the cocoa it is made from) contain high levels of magnesium, which help to maintain healthy levels of glucose and promote the production of fat-burning hormones. This makes dark chocolate a great option in regards to boosting metabolism, when consumed in moderation.
Water
When learning about metabolism boosting foods, one would be wise to not disregard the vital role hydration plays in one’s metabolism. Ensuring your body is sufficiently hydrated is essential for healthy living, and also helps to burn fat and suppress one’s appetite, making the consumption of water essential in boosting metabolism and maintaining health.
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