Our metabolisms determine how fast we burn calories. Some people are born with faster metabolisms than others, and certain factors, such as aging or thyroid illnesses, can slow down your metabolic rate. Still, there are natural ways to increase the speed of your metabolism.
Boost Your Metabolism with Food
Step 1
Drink 96 oz. of cold water every day. Madelyn Fernstrom, Ph.D., the director of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Weight Management Center told "Women's Health" magazine that drinking cold water can help your body burn a few more calories as it heats the water to your core temperature. The magazine also reported studies have shown people who drank eight to 12 8-oz glasses of water a day had faster metabolisms than those who only drank four glasses.
Step 2
Eat often. Frequent, smaller meals can help keep you energized, and when you fuel your body, it is less likely to hold onto fat stores. Try anywhere from four to six small meals a day, and don't be afraid to incorporate healthy snacks into your eating plan. Don't forget--breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. It starts your metabolism working first thing in the morning and helps you burn calories all day long.
Step 3
Eat more protein. Protein helps you build lean muscle mass, and muscle helps you burn more calories than fat does. When your body converts food to energy, it chooses carbohydrates first, and carbs that aren't used stay in your body as fat cells. By upping your protein intake, you offer your body more fuel to burn and not fat to store.
Step 4
Drink green tea. Tammy Lakatos Shames, who wrote "Fire Up Your Metabolism: 9 Proven Principles for Burning Fat and Losing Weight Forever" told "Women's Health" magazine that green tea has a fat burning compound called ECGC. The magazine cites studies that show drinking between three and five cups of green tea every day can help you burn as many as 50 extra calories.
Step 5
Keep a record. Use a notebook or computer spreadsheet to track your efforts and the results. Find a formula that works for you, and adjust as necessary. This will help keep you motivated and consistent.
Tips and Warnings
- Adding exercise to your lifestyle is another way to boost your metabolism.
- It's always smart to talk to a physician before you begin a new diet program.
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