Research on metabolism-boosting foods and beverages is mixed; some experts believe nothing has been clinically proven, while limited research supports the fat-burning properties of a few items. Whatever beverage you choose, make sure it's low in overall calories and sugar. The healthiest beverage of all is water -- and drinking a full glass before a meal can help you eat less.
Considerations
If you're trying to boost your metabolism in order to lose weight, you may be approaching the problem incorrectly. The age-old formula of a healthy diet and regular exercise is the best way to shed pounds; metabolism is usually only a factor in cases of thyroid disorders or other medical problems that cause weight gain. Some foods and beverages have been shown to boost metabolism slightly or speed weight loss, but the most important thing to remember is that you'll lose weight if you burn more calories than you take in every day.
Smoothies
The juicing process removes the fiber from fruits and vegetables, which leaves you with just the sugar. Smoothies made with whole fruits -- especially fiber-rich ones like pears and apples -- can help you stay fuller than a glass of juice would. Try making your own smoothies to avoid the extra sugar and artificial flavors that premade smoothies often contain. For a spicy kick, add a bit of hot red pepper, which contains the appetite-suppressing chemical capsaicin.
Green Tea
Green tea contains compounds called catechins that can help you burn fat more quickly. Catechins also have antioxidant power and could lower your LDL cholesterol as well as speed up your metabolism. The caffeine in green tea provides an energy boost, which could help you work out harder if you drink your daily cup before exercising. Brew your own green tea or look for bottled drinks with little to no added sugar.
Grapefruit Juice
The phytochemicals in grapefruit reduce your body's insulin levels, which in turn helps you convert calories into energy instead of excess fat. Drinking grapefruit juice three times a day could help you lose a few pounds. Look for 100 percent grapefruit juice with no added sugar, or juice your own. Grapefruit juice interacts negatively with a number of medications, so ask your doctor about drinking it if you're taking drugs for anxiety, depression, allergies, seizures, high cholesterol or immune system suppression.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Metabolism: What's the Best Way to Boost It?; Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.
- "Fitness"; Are There Any Foods to Boost Metabolism?
- "Good Housekeeping"; 15 Foods to Help You Lose Weight; Denise Foley; January 2007
- American Chemical Society: Clinical Trial Confirms Effectiveness...; Aug. 23, 2010
- MayoClinic.com: Grapefruit juice: Beware of dangerous medication interactions; Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.
Member Comments