8 Organic Foods That Can Boost Your Metabolism

The combined effects of the biochemical process that occur in your body on a cellular level are called metabolism. They make it possible for you to digest food, think, move and perform all the functions of a living being. Your metabolism is the powerhouse that keeps your body going. Genetics have a large role to play in determining your metabolic rate. But eating right can also speed it up naturally.

The metabolism boosting foods I’m sharing in this article will not only help you burn fat, but they can also keep you healthy in the long run. So, be sure to regularly include them in your diet!

Great Organic Foods to Boost Metabolism

Chili peppers

Chili peppers are abundant in capsaicin, a chemical compound that has several beneficial properties. Studies have found that this compound gives chili peppers the ability to boost thermogenesis, which is the process by which calories are turned into heat to use as energy.

Chilies have the potential to boost your metabolism rapidly and also have high doses of vitamin C, so it is a good idea to add these to your meals. You can chop them finely and sprinkle them on salads, curries, and soups.

Coffee

A recent study has found that the metabolic rate of people who drink coffee regularly is significantly higher than non-coffee drinkers. Coffee can help break down fat from tissue and stimulates the nervous system, which sends signals to fat cells to metabolize fat. It also increases levels of the hormone Epinephrine in the blood, which travels to the fat tissues and helps break down fat.

Lentils

Lentils are small legumes that are rich in fiber, magnesium, protein, vitamins B, C, and folate. They are also an excellent source of iron, especially for vegans and vegetarians. One cup of lentils contains 35% of your daily iron requirement. Iron plays a major role in helping your body burn calories and function efficiently. With most women being iron deficient, it is a very good idea to make lentils a regular part of your diet.

Berries

Berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which counteract the harmful effects of free radicals and keep your skin looking youthful. Also, berries contain fiber, help you heal more quickly and boost your metabolism.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a unique spice that contains thermogenic properties. It helps your body automatically start to burn more calories throughout the day.  It not only helps the body effectively process carbohydrates, but it also helps control cravings for sweets. You can sprinkle cinnamon on yogurt, oatmeal or even fruits like apples. But try to stick to not more than ¼ teaspoon serving per day.

Green Tea

Green tea contains Epigallocatechin gallate, a form of catechin that has been found to stimulate the fat burning process. It is rich in antioxidants that help destroy free radicals that are responsible for many diseases such as cancer.

Green tea contains flavonoids that are associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases such as stroke and heart disease. Drinking green tea also boosts your metabolism significantly and can help your body burn fat fast.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are great metabolism boosters. This is primarily related to the high fiber content of greens like spinach which can increase your fat burn by 30%. There are many other reasons to consider including leafy greens such as kale and swiss chard in your diet. They are rich in iron to support healthy blood and calcium to boost the performance of muscles. This combination of nutrients is necessary for optimal cellular metabolism. It is recommended to consume 3 servings of leafy greens per day to start seeing visible results.

Nuts and Seeds

Seeds and nuts are excellent sources of energy. Almonds, Walnuts, Flaxseeds, Pumpkin seeds, Pistachios and Brazil nuts have a number of health advantages. Since they are high in protein, they will help you burn more fat as protein has a high thermic effect on the body. Since your body needs to burn more fat to digest these, these nuts and seeds help speed up your metabolic rate.

Final Thoughts

Making the right diet and food choices can go a long way in revving up your metabolism. It is recommended to avoid energy drinks, processed foods, and sugar-filled sodas. Some of these foods will give you a temporary boost, but they will slow down your metabolism in the long run and lead to weight gain. Instead, make the foods mentioned above a regular part of your diet. Make sure you chew these thoroughly as this will aid in better digestion as well. It is also important to get plenty of sleep and do what you can to cut down on the stress in your life. Make regular exercise a priority and include cardio exercise and stretching. Following some of these tips, will not only increase your metabolism but also improve your overall health.

By Lystia Putranto: Writer at BookCulinaryVacations.com. Personal & professional development blogger, Lystia is also a lover of travel, a self-professed foodie, and an amateur cook who admittedly spends way too much time surfing the web.