Making positive changes to our diet, activity, and overall lifestyle can help keep us healthy. Below are five foods known to boost metabolism when combined with proper exercise and healthy eating habits.
Oatmeal
Studies suggest that eating oats positively affects appetite-regulating hormones. Oats are rich in fiber, which lowers cholesterol levels and is recommended for those struggling with energy regulation and obesity. Eating oatmeal doesn’t make your hunger disappear, but it can slow down the release of sugar into your bloodstream and keep you from consuming less unhealthy snacks.
Almonds
Not only are almonds tasty and chock-full of protein, but they are also considered a “hard nut,” which causes your body to expend more energy to digest them. Digesting almonds and other proteins is called the thermic effect of food, which may help support weight loss and reduce appetite. Almonds can also replace unhealthy snacks and improve metabolic parameters.
Green Tea
According to 2017 research, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a compound in green tea, may increase the metabolic rate. The study published in The Journal of Food and Drug Analysis noted that more extensive trials are needed to understand how it affects metabolism. Tea alone isn’t magical, and it is essential to lead an active life or reduce calories in other areas to feel the compound’s full effect.
Chili Peppers
If you love spicy food, you will be excited to learn that chili peppers can help you burn more calories. A 2017 study states that chili activates brown adipose tissue, which regulates your temperature in cold weather. Chili peppers also improve insulin control and positively affect diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and obesity. Be careful and don’t go overboard!
Broccoli
In 2020, a study on the effects of broccoli on the liver and glutathione (GSH) metabolism was published, shedding light on some of the benefits of the green veggie on metabolism. (Glutathione improves your metabolism and assists the digestive system.) While the study states that more research is needed, broccoli benefits health due to changes in the gut microbe and improved GSH, which protects the body from oxidative stress.