Did you know that some foods affect your metabolism more than others? Your metabolism isnt necessarily something youre stuck with-its determined by your behaviors. A diet rich in certain nutrient-dense foods can actually increase your metabolism, which gives you an added edge when trying to lose weight.
Understanding Metabolism
Metabolism is the rate at which your body is able to convert foods into energy. It is affected by a variety of factors, such as what you eat, how often you exercise, and how much energy your body needs to perform basic functions. Our hectic lives often push us toward unhealthy behaviors, such as hitting the drive-through for fast food or skipping out on exercise. As our bodies settle into a sedentary life, an increase in fatty foods and a decrease in muscle tone can take a big toll on our metabolism.
Leading an unhealthy lifestyle is a vicious cycle thats difficult to break. While you cant expect to change your habits all at once, you can take small steps toward improving your metabolism, and thus your overall health.
Five Power Foods That Increase Metabolism
So what are these "magical" foods that can kick-start your metabolism? Theyre not a secret-you can find them all at your local grocery store. Not only are the following foods good for you, but they also trigger fat-loss hormones:
• Red Berries. Berries like raspberries and strawberries contain anthocyanins, which stop fat cells from getting larger while also encouraging them to release hormones that reduce inflammation and lower blood sugar.
• Garlic. Foods in the allium family help to lower cholesterol, boost testosterone (which gives you energy), destroy free radicals, and remove hormone-disrupting chemicals.
• Red Beans. The fiber content of beans makes you feel fuller, store less fat, and lower cholesterol. It also promotes the production of testosterone, helping you build more calorie-burning muscle.
• Broccoli. Cruciferous vegetables have high water and fiber content, increasing your bodys fat-burning ability by nearly 30%. Studies have shown that people who include more fiber in their diet are less likely to gain weight.
• Whole Grains. Yes, carbs improve your metabolism too! The fiber in whole grains makes us feel more full, slows down the release of blood sugar, and stabilizes our insulin levels. Be sure to eat grains that are whole-stay achoice from refined carbs.
Eating Toward a Healthier Lifestyle
There is no single trick to shedding extra pounds, believe me, I know from experience! Meeting your weight loss goals-and keeping them-requires you to work consistently toward a healthier lifestyle. Still, if you alter your diet by taking out some foods and replacing them with others, youll not only experience all the benefits of eating healthier, youll be helping your body burn more calories-literally.
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