Your metabolism is the sum of all chemical reactions that occur in your body to maintain life and can be revved naturally by eating right. Metabolism includes how your foods are digested and how substances are transported into and between different cells.
Although your metabolism is partly ruled by genetics, you can still boost it with the right amount of nutrients you take in daily. Here are some foods you should eat:
1. Egg whites
Egg whites are sugar-free and contain very low cholesterol levels. They also have excellent sources of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, and are rich in branched-chain amino acids, which help to boost metabolism.
2. Chili peppers
Chili peppers have a list of plant derived chemical compounds that help prevent diseases and also promote health. They contain capsaicin, an alkaloid compound that gives it its strong spicy and pungent feel and also helps to boost metabolism. You can add a tablespoon of chili peppers to your meal daily.
3. Green tea
Green tea contains a lot of antioxidants and nutrients known to have powerful effects on the body. Studies have found green tea to help improve brain function, fat loss, and also lower the risk of cancer. This brew contains a compound called EGCG, which promotes fat-burning, thereby improving the metabolism.
4. Whole grains
Whole grains are a rich source of protein, fiber, B vitamins, antioxidants, and trace minerals. Studies have found that a diet rich in whole grains can reduce the risk of heart disease, and metabolic diseases. Whole grains help the body to burn excess fat as it takes extra effort to break down processed grains. This will improve metabolism, and make the body act with full alertness. Brown rice and oatmeal are perfect examples of meals rich in whole grains.
5. Lentils
Lentils are a good source of protein, and have been shown to help lower cholesterol, stabilize blood sugar, increase energy, improve digestion and heart health. It is also a great source of iron, which helps the body to burn calories efficiently. With one cup of lentils, you get about 35 percent of your daily iron needs. Lentils also serve as a great substitute for starchy carbohydrates that may increase your blood sugar levels.
6. Water
Your metabolism may slow down if you are dehydrated, which is why it is important that you drink adequate water regularly. Drink at least 8 cups of water daily to get the full benefits of water. Taking adequate water also helps to boost the immune system and flushes out toxins from the body.
Metabolism plays a major role in how you lose weight and also helps to keep your body in shape.
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