Metabolism is the process of chemical reactions within an organism that results in life-sustaining energy. When metabolism is discussed in a weight-management context it is referring to the chemical process by which food is turned into fuel, or energy, within the body. A high metabolism means that food is quickly broken down and turned into energy, burning calories at a fast pace. Having a low metabolism means this process is slower, and it takes longer for this person to burn excess calories, resulting in weight gain. Exercise is one of the most effective ways to increase metabolism. Unfortunately, some people are not able to exercise due to health issues, which can make weight gain almost inevitable.
Step 1
Drink more water. Water has a thermogenic effect on the body, according to a study reported in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology Metabolism. This means it increases the rate at which energy is expended by the body, resulting in more calories burned.
Step 2
Add some spice to your diet. Cinnamon, garlic, chili pepper and cayenne pepper are meal-enhancing spices you can add to your meal to ramp up the thermogenic effect of food without adding calories. Other effective metabolism-speeding supplements and foods include apple cider vinegar, green tea, cabbage and lean protein. All foods cause your body to burn calories, but these foods contain components that increase the rate. They are also low in calories, so you can burn more calories without adding on an excess of calories simultaneously.
Step 3
Eat smaller-portioned meals at regular intervals throughout the day. Eating increases metabolic rate. Try eating a lot of mini-meals throughout the day that will keep your metabolism running steadily without adding extra calories.
Step 4
Never skip breakfast. Breakfast is the perfect meal to jump-start the metabolism. The metabolism lowers as you sleep at night. If you skip breakfast, your metabolic rate will stay low until you eat. If you wait for lunch to eat you will feel extra famished and consume more calories, and your metabolism will become more sluggish.
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