While genetics and a regular exercise routine typically have the most impact on your metabolism, your diet plays a part too. Studies show that certain foods can boost your metabolism and others slow it down. Making a few tweaks to your meals won’t replace exercise but it can certainly complement it.
10 Foods That Boost Your Metabolism
1. Chili Peppers
Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which has been shown to have a positive impact on your metabolism. According to several studies, having chili peppers before a meal can lead to eating less. If the peppers are included in your dish, they may increase the rate at which your body burns fat.
2. Tea
Tea usually contains compounds called catechins that are good for your health. One health benefit is that they may work with caffeine to boost your metabolism. Specifically, oolong and matcha tea can help burn calories as well as help your body burn stored fat more effectively.
RELATED: 5 Ways To Speed Up Your Metabolism…A Lot!
3. Ginger
Research shows that having ginger before a meal can help you feel full more quickly and may encourage burning calories. A good way to do this is to dissolve a teaspoon of ginger powder in a cup of hot water and then drink it before eating.
You May Also Like
4. Beans
Beans and legumes are great sources of plant protein. Research shows that when your body consumes high protein content, it burns calories faster in order to digest it. Additionally, these plants contain soluble fiber that encourages a healthy gut microbiome and good digestive health. Some foods to add to your diet include chickpeas, lentils, peas, and black beans.
5. Whole Grains
When you eat whole grains, you’re more likely to feel full. Studies also show that eating whole grains can increase your resting metabolic rate and help you burn more calories during digestion.
6. Eggs
Apart from being an excellent source of protein, eggs also contain a good helping of B vitamins. These vitamins typically aid in converting food to energy, which translates to burning calories quickly and efficiently. However, it’s important to note that participants in a study saw the best results when they ate two eggs daily for at least five days per week.
7. Tempeh
Tempeh is high in healthy protein and fats so it’s likely to make you feel fuller after a meal. It’s also a fermented food with probiotic health benefits. These benefits include promoting good gut health that will result in burning calories more quickly.
You May Also Like
8. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great source of fiber that helps with digestion and satiety. As you burn calories more effectively, you’re also likely to eat less. That’s why many experts recommend eating oatmeal for breakfast as it sets a good pace for the rest of the day.
9. Almonds
They may be small but almonds contain a healthy mixture of fats, fiber, and protein. When you snack on these nuts, they’ll help you feel full in between meals.
10. Berries
Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are great sources of fiber. This fiber helps you feel full and reduce your appetite while encouraging weight loss.
RELATED: 7 Simple Secrets For A Faster Metabolism
Why Metabolism Matters To Older Women
According to several studies, the metabolism slows down by up to three percent every decade starting in your 20s. However, the change becomes more noticeable when you get to your 40s. There are multiple reasons for this including having less muscle, no longer producing human growth hormones, and the hormonal changes that come with menopause. All of these changes not only slow down your metabolism but can also lead to fat accumulating in your middle instead of being evenly distributed through your body.
As you get older, it becomes harder to lose weight. It makes sense to do everything you can to maintain a healthy weight and keep chronic illnesses at bay. Your diet is an easy way to get a handle on your metabolism while you’re sticking to a regular exercise routine.
