Metabolism is the rate at which your body uses calories for voluntary and involuntary actions. Everything from sitting on the floor to concentrating on a crossword puzzle contributes to your metabolic rate. If you are looking to boost your metabolism through your diet, there are several easy ways to do it.
Calorie Restriction
When you are trying to lose weight, it is tempting to slash your calories to a very low point. This can send your body into starvation mode so that it holds on to stored fat for energy. Cut your calories, but do not go overboard. Eliminate the foods that are high in fat and sugar like burgers, fries, commercial baked goods and candy bars.
Breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day in more ways than one. Not only can it help give you mental and physical energy first thing in the morning, but it can also jump-start your metabolism. Eat anything you like as long as it is nutritious. If you do not have time to prepare a meal, grab a nutrition bar and nosh on it as you walk out the door.
Grazing
Eating small, frequent meals is also known as "grazing." As the name implies, you eat small amounts of food every two to three hours throughout the day like a horse grazing in a pasture. Not only can this help boost your metabolism, but it can also keep your hunger regulated and sustain your energy levels. Consume meals that have a balance of protein and complex carbs. A whole wheat pita with low-fat cheese, lettuce and tomato is a meal example.
Spice
Hot peppers contain a chemical called capsaicin. According to Cynthia Sass, author of the Flat Belly Diet, capsaicin can turn your metabolism up a notch while also enhancing the feeling of fullness and reducing hunger. Add red pepper flakes, chili peppers or jalapenos to your food.
Ice Cold Water
Water alone helps hydrate the body and it can also spare you calories when you are trying to lose weight. If you want to give your metabolism a slight boost, drink it when it is ice cold. According to Roger Clemens, associate director of regulatory science at the USC School of Pharmacy, you'll burn about eight calories for each glass of iced calorie-free beverage you drink.
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