15 Foods That Boost Metabolism Will Surprise You
A slow metabolism can thwart weight loss efforts despite best intentions. This post from BlackDoctor.org profiles 15 foods to boost metabolism and speed up your body’s fat burn rate!
Low on energy? Mix and match these metabolism boosting foods to give your body’s engine the fuel it needs to burn, baby, burn!
Almonds:
Though high in calories, when eaten in moderation these nuts are a great source of unsaturated fats (keeping you fuller longer) and rich in protein, causing your body to burn more calories following consumption.
Asparagus:
This veggie is a nutrient powerhouse. Whether grilled or tossed into a salad, you’ll nab the benefits of 4 grams of protein per cup, all for 30 calories. Not to mention, one serving is loaded with as much as 73 percent of your recommended daily value of vitamin C, 180 percent of your vitamin K and 61 percent of your folate.
Avocado:
Avocado contains all 9 essential amino acids, plus heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish like salmon, tuna and halibut) necessary for reducing inflammation and lowering risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis and heart disease. Did we mention this fruit is also packed with 2 grams of protein per half?
Broccoli:
This cruciferous veggie packs serious nutritional power in just a few calories per bite. High in water and fiber (4 grams per NLEA serving) your body will be left feeling reenergized.
Cheese:
Low-fat options like cottage cheese are packed with 14 grams of protein for every ½ cup.
Edamame:
Edamame is good enough to eat daily. Low in calories (190 cal per cup), this dish boasts of vitamin C, A, and iron – nutrients experts say both carry oxygen to the muscles (enabling them to work harder and burn more fat) and store energy.
Eggs:
Hands down one of the best foods you can eat for breakfast. Eggs contain protein, omega 3 fats, healthy B vitamins, and essential amino acids – all which help your metabolism work for you, all day long.
Fish and shellfish:
There’s good reason experts suggest aiming for 3 to 5 servings a week. Packed with up to 28 grams’ protein per 4 ounces, options like salmon, halibut, or tuna are never a miss.
Grapefruit:
Containing an antioxidant called naringenin, researchers at the Scripps Clinic in California found that this pink fruit helps your body use insulin more efficiently, keeping your blood sugar in check and improving calorie burn.
Greek yogurt:
For every 6 ounces, you’ll get 18 grams’ protein (twice as much as regular yogurt) and loads of calcium to give your body the energy is needs to just keep swimming.
Legumes:
Think black beans, chickpeas and lentils… each containing 7-9 grams’ protein per ½ cup (cooked). Also containing resistant starch, this dish helps repair the lining of the intestine, helping fight inflammation and harmful bacteria.
Poultry:
Not big on fish? Skinless chicken also packs a powerful punch of protein, delivering 28 grams per 4 ounces.
Spinach:
One cup of this dark leafy green (cooked) delivers 5 grams of protein to build muscles and burn fat.
Tofu:
Made from soy beans, this low-calorie option carries 12 grams of protein for every 3 ounces.
Whey protein:
Add a scoop of this seemingly tasteless protein powder to your morning smoothie for a quick hit of protein – 24 grams per 1 ounce!
