5 Foods Proven to Boost Metabolism

Food that Naturally Increase Metabolism

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Metabolism pertains to all of the chemical reactions that occur in the body. There are various reasons that can slow down or speed up one's metabolic rate. What most people go for, is a faster metabolism because it is known to aid and support any weight loss program.

There are several ways of speeding up the body’s metabolism. Exercise has the most dramatic effect on a person's metabolic rate.  However, you can also try other options like the diet-induced thermogenesis if you don't have time for a workout program. Food intake also has a certain effect to the body's metabolism.

Five foods that boost metabolism

After eating a meal, there will be a natural increase in the metabolic rate. This occurs because of chemical processes and heat production involved with digestion, absorption, and storage. Food intake is a dynamic factor that directly increases metabolism.

This is the reason why people who skip meals will eventually have a slower metabolism because they eliminate this dynamic process. Instead of skipping meals, try these food and drinks that can naturally increase metabolism.

1. Caffeine

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There are lots of  clinical trials showing that caffeine does affect the body's metabolism. According to a recent study conducted, people who drank caffeinated beverages had a higher metabolic rate than those who drank decaf.

Coffee offers a maximum of 16% increase in the body’s metabolic rate because of its stimulatory effect  to the sympathetic nervous system. Keep in mind that the caffeine I am referring to are those contained in coffee beans and not the instant coffee version. Also don’t splurge on frappe and other drinks with added sugar and whip cream.

2. Protein

After eating a meal loaded with protein, the metabolic rate naturally increase after one hour. The effect of protein to metabolism can reach a maximum of 30% above the normal. A protein meal can effectively boost your metabolism which can last for 3 - 12 hours.

3. Cinnamon

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Cinnamon is not just a regular spice, it can also help you lose more weight and increase your metabolism. It works by directly affecting the regulation of insulin in your body. Insulin is the hormone which influences the metabolism of fat and carbohydrates. During the process, it also increases the body’s metabolic rate and energy expenditure. One-fourth to one teaspoon of cinnamon can significantly increase your metabolism by 20 percent.

4. Green Tea

Green tea is loaded with antioxidants that reduce free radicals in the body. It also contains catechin which is the active ingredient that is responsible in boosting metabolism. Nutritionists explain that catechin works by promoting fat oxidation and enhancing thermogenesis. It also helps promote and maintain weight loss by improving digestion. Drinking three cups of green tea can boost metabolism by 10 percent.

5. Red Chili Pepper

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Red chili pepper and ginger are spices that can speed up metabolism. According to the New York Times, red chili pepper contains capsaicin; this chemical component of chili generates heat in the body. Eating a spicy meal can naturally increase metabolism by eight percent.

One Canadian research claim that appetizers with hot sauce results to fewer food intake throughout the day. This was due to the effect of capsaicin in prolonging one's satiety. Do take caution when eating spicy foods especially on an empty stomach, since it can worsen heartburn and ulcer symptoms.

Summary

Those are the top five foods that can naturally burn fat and boost metabolism. Keep in mind that metabolism is affected by different factors. It is also important to seek expert/medical advice before starting any diet program.