Charging Up Your Metabolism

You know the old saying "you are what you eat"? Well, it is the truth. Chemicals that are released during digestion also become a part of your body. The idea is to eat foods that improve the way your bodily systems run. This will help ensure that your energy and metabolism are always set to "high."

Vitamin C
New research studies have discovered that your body tends to have a tougher time burning calories and fat whenever it doesn't have adequate levels of vitamin C. Many experts believe that one-third of all Americans are running low on this important antioxidant. This is because we're not eating enough fruits and vegetables. You can get vitamin C from a number of foods including strawberries, red bell peppers, tomatoes, spinach and citrus fruits. Orange juice is filled with vitamin C, but just be sure to watch the sugar content and calories on the variety you choose.

Water
When trying to lose weight it is essential to drink a lot of water. You will notice that every weight loss plan recommends that you drink a lot of water, and science has backed it up. In a study, German researchers gave fourteen men and women two cups of water to drink. Within ten minutes of finishing their final sip the subjects' metabolism had begun to rise. Their bodies were burning calories at a thirty percent higher rate than normal after forty minutes. Water also helps prevent dehydration which can slow down your metabolism. And, water often gives you a "full" feeling so you may be less likely to turn to unhealthy snacks.

Cinnamon
Cinnamon is another food that can help boost your body's metabolism according to the United States Department of Agriculture. Research done by the USDA has revealed that consuming one-forth to one teaspoon of cinnamon can increase the body's metabolism twenty times beyond its natural ability. This allows your body to burn fat and calories much more quickly and efficiently. You can add cinnamon to your favorite meals or snacks, or try adding a pinch of this spice to your tea or coffee.

Green Tea
Green tea is beneficial for a number of things, including losing weight and even helping to prevent conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Green tea can also help increase your metabolism. It is said by some researchers that drinking five cups of green tea a day can help you burn 70-80 extra calories.

Chili Peppers
Eating spicy foods such as chili peppers can also help you burn fat. These types of foods make you sweat and increase your heart rate, and increase your metabolism for a period of time. If you can stand the "heat" you might want to incorporate a few hot peppers into your daily menu. Add them to veggie stir-fry or top off your spinach salad with a few.

Even though successful weight loss generally comes down to healthy eating and proper exercise, you can get a little help from the above foods when it comes to burning fat and calories. So try a few today!