The Metabolism Boosters That Athletes Use

Metabolism refers to the series of chemical processes that occur in the body to produce energy. The body converts the foods you eat into energy, which increases calorie burn. Individuals who have a higher metabolic rate will burn more calories for weight-loss and fat-loss. Athletes benefit from an increased metabolism in order to keep energy levels high and physical form in peak condition for training and competitive events. Although evidence varies, there are natural ways to boost the metabolism, according to Canadian Living.com. However, the key to a healthy body is essentially eating a well-balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity and making healthy lifestyle choices.

Eat Breakfast

Athletes eat breakfast in the morning to boost their metabolic rate. Metabolism is highest in the morning and then slows down as the day continues and energy stores are used up through activities and daily tasks. CanadianLiving.com says research has shown that cutting calories at breakfast to lower daily calorie intake or simply not making time to eat in the morning may actually lead to weight gain. Eating a well-balanced diet of complex carbs, lean proteins and some healthy fats provides the body with a steady stream of energy throughout the day for optimal physical and mental functioning.

Drink Water

Athletes know that drinking plenty of water boosts the metabolism. This fluid is essential for nutrient transport in the body, eliminating toxins and waste products and regulation of the body's organs and systems. According to the Mayo Clinic, inadequate water intake can cause dehydration, which affects the body's ability to perform normal, daily functions and can lead to fatigue, weakness, decreased mental acuity and nausea. The average, healthy adult should take in approximately 8 to 9 cups of water a day. An athlete should replace water lost through sweating as well, up to approximately an additional 2 liters of water or other beverages as part of a healthy, balanced diet plan.

Eat Protein

Protein is an essential nutrient needed in the body for the growth, development and maintenance of muscle and bodily tissues. Lean muscle mass has a higher metabolic rate than muscle, meaning the more muscle you have, the more calories you will burn even at rest. This helps athletes achieve and maintain a lean physique that burns fat efficiently. Furthermore, protein shortens recovery time between workouts by repairing torn and fatigued muscle fibers from intense or long-duration training periods. Athletes may incorporate lean sources of protein such as chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, nuts and seeds in their daily diet. In addition, protein shakes and smoothies allow for quick absorption of nutrients following workouts.

Magnesiusm

According to Rehan Jalali, a certified sports nutritionist and a fitness expert for Jigsaw Health.com, magnesium may assist in increasing the metabolic rates of athletes. Jigsaw Health.com cites a 1993 study by S. Golf et al. published in the journal "In Magnesium" that found that male competitive rowers who were given a magnesium supplement for four weeks had decreased oxygen consumption and blood lactate concentrations compared to subjects without supplementation. The conclusion was that magnesium may benefit energy metabolism to improve work efficiency and physical performances. In addition to supplements, magnesium is also found naturally in whole-grains, nuts, molasses, greens and squash.