Your metabolism is the rate at which your body breaks down macronutrients in your diet, then uses them as a source of energy. This affects how easily a person is able to lose weight. The conventional diet and exercise methods are the norm when it comes to natural ways to speed your metabolism, but specific foods should be incorporated into your diet to increase your metabolic rate.
Fruits
Aside from having plenty of antioxidants and nutrients, fruits can help speed up your metabolism. According to the American Diabetes Association, citrus fruits and berries, in particular, can help raise your metabolism. Try including blackberries, strawberries, cranberries, kiwi, oranges, grapefruits and limes into your daily diet.
Beans
Beans are one of the best foods to speed up your metabolism because of their rich nutrient makeup. The American Diabetic Association reports that beans are full of protein, potassium, fiber and magnesium. A 1/2-cup serving of beans provides the equivalent amount of protein as 1 oz. of meat and fulfills 33 percent of the fiber requirement for the average adult's daily diet.
Monounsaturated Fats
Not all fats are bad when it comes to weight loss, and monounsaturated fats are considered to be "good" fats. In a 2007 study published in "Diabetes Care," results showed that foods rich in monounsaturated fats can aid in weight maintenance and fat loss, particularly around the waistline. Foods such as avocados, almonds, olive oil and dark chocolate contain plenty of monounsaturated fats.
Vegetables
The Weight-control Information Network says that consuming a variety of brightly colored vegetables -- those that are red, orange and dark green -- can help increase your metabolism. Squash, green peppers, radishes, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower and mustard greens can be eaten alone or as a side dish for your meals.
References
- "Diabetes Care"; Monounsaturated Fat--Rich Diet Prevents Central Body Fat Distribution and Decreases Postprandial Adiponectin Expression Induced by a Carbohydrate-Rich Diet in Insulin-Resistant Subjects; J.A. Paniagua, et al.; July 2007
- Weight-control Information Network; Better Health and You; March 2008
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Superfoods
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