Whether you're trying to lose weight or simply improve your health, everyone can benefit from giving their metabolism an extra boost. While your metabolism is mainly due to genetics, there are numerous ways you can help improve its function, such as getting the right amount of sleep, exercising and good nutrition. Try incorporating these 10 healthy foods into your diet to give your metabolism that extra boost and make your body feel amazing.
1. Apples
Apples are an amazing source of pectin, a soluble fiber that flushes toxins from your body and helps keeps your thyroid healthy. Since your thyroid can directly affect your metabolism, this is a great metabolism-boosting fruit to snack on. As an added bonus, pectin has also been shown to aid in weight loss.
2. Green Tea
This warm drink is packed with antioxidants and research shows it directly boosts your metabolism and aids in weight loss. Instead of a sugary cup of coffee in the morning, try switching to this healthier alternative and reap the added benefits.
3. Yogurt
Yogurt is a great source of protein, vitamin D and probiotics. Protein and vitamin D can both help benefit the thyroid, while probiotics can improve your gut health. This creamy treat has a lot more to offer than just being delicious. If you want a healthier version with extra probiotics and less sugar, try switching to greek yogurt.
4. Spicy Peppers
Jalepenos, habeneros, cayenne and other spicy peppers have all been directly linked to boosting your metabolism and reducing cravings. This is all thanks to an ingredient called capsaicin, which studies have shown can temporarily increase your blood circulation and increase your metabolic rate. Next time you start breaking a sweat after a particularly spicy meal you'll know that capsaicin is the culprit.
5. Grapefruit
Grapefruit can help us burn fat and is high in vitamin C and antioxidants such as naringenin, which helps reduce insulin spikes and improve your metabolism. It also contains fiber to help give your metabolism a little extra kick. Try adding this tart fruit to your breakfast menu.
6. Almonds
Almonds may be small, but they are packed with fatty acids that can help boost your metabolism. In addition, they're a great source of antioxidants and fiber. Try incorporating a small handful of almonds a day into your diet for a healthy and fulfilling snack.
7. Turkey
Turkey is a great low fat meat that is packed with B vitamins, folic acid and protein. The high protein content found in turkey is what helps keeps your metabolism going and aids in building muscle. This is especially true if you're incorporating exercise into your lifestyle. Thanksgiving doesn't have to be the only time you enjoy this metabolism boosting entree, try pairing a few slices of turkey with whole wheat bread, lettuce and tomato to create a tasty sandwich.
8. Legumes
Almost all beans are packed with protein and fiber which are two crucial building blocks for a healthy metabolism. Plus the B vitamins and zinc found in legumes can healthily boost testosterone, which in turn increases energy and aids in muscle growth.
9. Oatmeal
Oats are a great source of fiber and protein, as well as numerous nutrients including vitamin E, zinc, magnesium, iron, etc. Try starting off your morning with a bowl of whole cooked oatmeal, your metabolism and body will thank you.
10. Salmon
Salmon is one of the best fish for your metabolism because it's rich in protein and Omega 3s. It can help reduce the production of the hormone called leptin, a chemical that can slow your metabolism. Check out some delicious and healthy salmon recipes here.
