Eat These 10 Foods to Speed Up Your Metabolism and Lose Weight Quickly
One of the main problems people who suffer from obesity is that when they start with a weight loss program they find it difficult to achieve even minor results.
The main reason for this problem is that their metabolism has slowed down due to an unhealthy lifestyle and too much-processed food.
There are numerous ways to boost the work of your metabolism and start losing significant weight. The most important thing to do is to start consuming the right food and the results will come up soon.
1. Lemons
Lemons not only cleanse your liver and digestive system but also boost the function of your metabolism.
This is due to their abundance of vitamin C and enzymes which can effectively eliminate the toxins from your body. In fact, the toxins are converted into compounds which are subsequently eliminated in the form of waste.
All you have to do is drink 1 glass of warm water with the juice of half a lemon squeezed into it and drink this as the first thing in the morning. You can also add lemons to salads or meals.
2. Green Tea
Green tea possesses potent metabolism boosting properties. It contains antioxidants and polyphenols and it is very beneficial for the metabolic function.
According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, green tea possesses thermogenic properties and has the ability to promote the oxidation of fat. Another study showed that it is a great weight loss and weight maintenance agent.
Green tea contains catechins and caffeine that can speed up your metabolic rate and the energy expenditure during the process of weight loss. It is recommended to drink 2-3 cups of green tea a day.
3. Cayenne Pepper
Capsaicin, the active compound possesses potent thermogenic properties and can speed up your metabolic rate.
According to a study published by the Journal of Biological Chemistry, this compound found in cayenne pepper has the ability to boost metabolism and body temperature. It is very effective for enhancing the protein activity inside fat cells, thus breaking down the fat.
Another study showed that cayenne pepper is very beneficial in weight management in 3 separate categories: lowered appetite, increased oxidation of lipids, and increased energy levels.
4. Grapefruits
Grapefruits are rich in vitamin C, an essential vitamin for regulating fat metabolism and fat burning. Moreover, they contain naringenin, a flavonoid which has potent antioxidant properties and is very beneficial for your metabolism.
Naringenin also has the ability to lower insulin levels in your blood, thus leading to improved blood sugar levels and a faster metabolism.
According to a 2011 study published by Nutrition and Metabolism, by combining a diet low in calories and a glass of grapefruit juice, you will be able to regulate your metabolism and speed up the process of weight loss.
In order to obtain its maximum benefits, you should drink freshly-squeezed grapefruit with a lot of pulp in it.
Note: It can interact with certain medications, so before you include it into your diet, make sure to consult your physician!
5. Apples
Apples provide a number of health benefits, including boosting your metabolism. They are low in calories and high in soluble fiber, so they are great for those who want to lose weight.
The fiber can keep your cells from absorbing fat and encourage them to absorb more water. What is more, apples can keep you full for longer, thus keep you away from the unhealthy cravings.
This counts if you consume 1 apple before your meal. Even though all apples are packed with benefits, green apples are the most beneficial for boosting your metabolic rate.
6. Ginger
Ginger is known for its potent thermogenic properties. In other words, ginger can increase body temperature and metabolic rate. Moreover, it has the ability to increase the feeling of satisfaction, which will make you consume lesser calories.
According to a 2009 study, ginger can reduce the visceral fat amount and improve your metabolism. The regular consumption of ginger can limit the adverse effects of a high-cholesterol diet.
Another 2012 study proved its effectiveness when it comes to metabolism boosting and weight managing.
7. Black Coffee
Due to its high caffeine content, black coffee can stimulate the psychoactive central nervous system which in turn improves the metabolic rate.
It is extremely effective for increasing the release of dopamine and norepinephrine which help your body in releasing fats. Moreover, it hinders adenosine, which is known as an inhibitory neurotransmitter.
According to a study published by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, if taken after a meal, coffee has an immediate effect on both your fat oxidation and your metabolism.
Another study showed that coffee increases the oxidation of your fat, thus increasing thermogenesis. However, you should consume it in moderation because it can be counterproductive. It is recommended to drink 2-3 cups a day.
8. Cinnamon
Being low in calories, high in phytochemicals and antioxidants, cinnamon is great for losing weight. It is a natural blood glucose stabilizer and can increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin which in turn leads reduces the body fats.
A 2008 study showed that cinnamon is extremely beneficial for lowering cholesterol and improving blood sugar. Moreover, it has the ability to lower triglyceride levels and it is recommended for diabetics.
According to another study, cinnamon can provide positive effects in the treatment of metabolic syndrome-related problems. To improve your metabolism, you should take half or one teaspoon of cinnamon for 20 days.
9. Almonds
Even though almonds have a high content of calories, they are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids which can significantly boost your metabolism.
They can reduce the production of the hormone leptin, a natural chemical that has the ability to slow down your metabolic rate. What is more, almonds have a positive impact on your energy expenditure.
According to a study, almonds have a high content of fiber and they do not cause weight gain. Besides lowering the cholesterol, they can reduce the glycemic of the carbs you eat, only if they are eaten at the same time as almonds.
Moreover, they help in the burning of calories. A handful of almonds a day is enough to obtain its benefits!
10. Broccoli
Broccoli is an excellent source of various vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C and calcium, two essential components for improving the function of your metabolism.
Moreover, it is packed with photochemical which can break down fats. The best part is that this vegetable is low in calories, so you don’t have to worry about counting the calories.
Source: Team Fitness-training