There are various types of foods that boost metabolism when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan. They can include fruits and vegetables, foods high in protein, coffee, peppers and spices, and calcium-rich foods. Each of them has been proven to help speed up the number of calories burned per hour when consumed in adequate amounts. It is important to note, though, that any foods consumed in very high quantities can result in weight gain if the calories ingested are not offset by the rise in metabolic rate.
One of the most commonly known foods that boost metabolism is grapefruit. This fruit was made popular by the “grapefruit diet.” While going on a restrictive diet is not the safest way to lose weight on a long-term basis, grapefruit does contain ingredients that help rev up the metabolism and help dieters burn more calories.
Other foods that boost metabolism are those high in protein and fiber. These can include beans, turkey, lean meats, nuts, and legumes. High fiber foods take more energy for the body to digest. This added energy requires a spike in metabolism to accomplish. Protein, aside from causing an additional rise in metabolic rate, helps keep the body fuller for longer periods of time. This can help ward off the tendency to snack between meals or overeat.
Green tea is another popular food that helps speed up the metabolism. It contains high levels of epigallocatechin gallate, also known as EGCG. This substance causes the brain and nervous system to speed up, thus burning extra calories. Coffee has a similar effect because it contains high levels of caffeine, another one of the many foods that boost metabolism. Soda does not have this same effect, although it does contain caffeine, because it also contains so much sugar that any weight loss benefits are offset by the unhealthy ingredients. Coffee, on the other hand, does not contain any calories or sugar when consumed black.
Calcium-rich foods like soy milk, low fat cow’s milk, and yogurt are also foods that boost metabolism. They contain protein, similar to turkey and beans, but also contain high levels of calcium which is also a metabolism enhancer. Aside from weight loss benefits calcium rich foods also help keep bones and teeth strong, and yogurt contains healthy probiotics to help maintain proper digestion.
Some spicy foods also boost metabolism. These include jalapeno peppers and curry. Both contain capcaisin, which is proven to speed metabolism and improve weight loss. Cinnamon is another spice which helps burn calories. It can be added to tea, oatmeal, and whole wheat toast.
