Ways To Improve Your Metabolic Health

Metabolism is your body’s way of converting what you consume i.e. food or drink into energy for the better functioning of your body. During the process of metabolism calories are combined with oxygen to help release the energy. The first step to boosting your metabolism is by measuring your metabolic rate. The next thing you need to understand is to not skip meals. Not only is skipping meals unhealthy, but also is it directly linked to lowering the rate of your metabolism. So, how to increase your metabolic rate? This blog will take you through all the diet essentials you need to increase your metabolic rate.

Another important factor is to add both protein and fibre to your diet. The fibre in your diet boosts the process of digestion and protein on the other hand, helps keep your energy levels high and stops you from feeling starved. 

Even though it goes without saying, water is an excellent factor in boosting your metabolic rate. Drinking close to 48 ounces of cold water is said to hasten your metabolism. 

What foods raise your metabolic rate? 

Certain foods are known to contain nutrients that can help boost your body’s metabolism. Metabolism has directly been linked to how much you weigh, thus many people interlink your body’s metabolic rate to your weight management process. 

What drinks help boost your metabolism?  

Green Tea

Green Tea is widely known as an active agent in the weight management journey. The antioxidants and powerful nutrients present in the drink makes it effective for boosting your metabolism. Green tea is supposed to cut calories from your body efficiently. Green tea is good for weight loss as it also contains caffeine, as well as a flavonoid called catechin - an antioxidant. This can help you speed up your metabolism, by breaking down excess fat and increasing the amount of energy the body uses. 

Apple Cider Vinegar 

Apple Cider Vinegar helps balance the acidity levels of your body and boost your metabolic rate. It can also give you the feeling of fullness for longer periods of time and assists your stomach in digestion and the breakdown of food in order to access energy for the proper functioning of your body. Mix in one to two teaspoons of Apple Cider Vinegar into a glass full of water before each meal, everyday. And you are bound to see the difference. 

Herbal Tea

With the combination of herbs, spices and fruits in hot water - Herbal teas help greatly with your metabolism. Free of caffeine, herbal tea like that of ginger, hibiscus, and rosehip are extremely beneficial to your body. No matter what herbal tea you prefer to drink, it can affect your metabolism greatly. Rooibos tea is known to be efficient in helping your body’s metabolic rate. 

Coffee

Several studies have shown that the caffeine found in coffee can help increase your rate of metabolism by up to 11%. It has also been proven that people who drink up to three cups of coffee in a day burn an added 100 calories as opposed to people who don’t. But having said that, it is not very healthy to take this much caffeine in a day. 

Water

Most healthy people will tell you that water can work wonders on your body. Water makes your skin glow, your hair shine, and even helps you burn calories. If you stay dehydrated for long periods of time, your metabolism can take a hit. Adults who drink as much as eight to nine glasses in a day are known to have a higher rate of metabolism than those who don’t. It is needless to say that this zero calorie satiating liquid is nothing but good for your health. You can also snack on fresh fruits and vegetables since they are a potent source of hydration.

Now, let us talk about some foods that boost metabolism: 

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil is gaining popularity due to its good fat content. Contrary to the other type of fats, which usually contain long-chain fatty acids, coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids. These can be easily absorbed and processed by the liver to be turned into instant energy. Which means that there is a lesser chance of them being stored as excess fat in your body. They, also, help in increasing the metabolic rate of your body. 

Cacao

Probably the tastiest way to deal with your metabolic rate on this list is cacao or cocoa. Dark chocolate is often known as a catalyst for metabolism. Cocoa, in some studies, has shown to block the enzymes responsible for the breakdown of food, which can delay the absorption of calories. Thereby giving the illusion of feeling full. 

Metabolism boosting spices

Spices are known to boost your metabolism. For instance, taking two grams of ginger powder in hot water can help you burn upto more than 50 calories when compared to a normal glass of water. This drink also satiates your hunger and makes you feel satisfied for longer. Several other spices have shown similar effects. It is also a popular practise to add cayenne pepper to your meal as it increases the fat burning capability of your body, especially after consuming food that is rich in fatty acids. The fat-burning effects of the spices may only be visible on people who are not used to consuming spices on the daily. 

Choose whole grains

The more work your body puts into breaking down the food you consume, the faster your metabolism gets. Thus, it is better to add whole grains to your diet instead of processed ones. Processed grains are easily digestible but lack any nutritional value. Some of the foods you can consider adding to your diet are brown rice, oatmeal, quinoa, and even sprouted grain bread. With the right kind of diet, a good metabolism is easily achievable. 

Eat three meals a day 

Giving your body enough food is extremely crucial for its better functioning. Starving helps nobody. Any healthy individual knows the importance of having three balanced meals in a day. While snacks in between are allowed, the breakfast lunch and dinner can fulfil your dietary needs. 

Swear by Yoghurt 

The probiotics present in products like yoghurt and other fermented foods help cultivate good bacteria in your gut. Yoghurt is a great source of protein, and calcium for you. On top of which this low-calorie diet can help you on your weight management journey. Yoghurt can be incorporated in your diet very easily. 

Balance Sugar Levels

Balancing your blood sugar levels is extremely crucial for your everyday functioning. Foods that are high in blood sugar are not only harmful for your body. Meals heavy in simple sugars or starchy carbohydrates can increase the level of sugar in your blood. On the other hand, processed food items that contain saturated fats can easily cause your metabolism to slow down. This can leave you feeling out of energy for a long time. Thus, it is important that you take balanced meals throughout the day. 

With the right steps, you can improve your metabolism. Diet and lifestyle play an important factor in making your life easier and your gut healthier. From doing something as simple as reducing stress, or practising yoga to trying something strenuous as HIIT, there are many ways to work on your metabolism. It is also advisable to consult with a doctor before making lifestyle changes.