Metabolism- ways to improve it
A good workout schedule is a great way to
keep yourself fit and to maintain a healthy metabolism, but there are
other things you can do to supplement your workout. Here are just some
of the ways you can keep your body in top shape and help it make the
most out of your regular exercise.
Don't skip breakfast
Eating a good healthy breakfast is crucial in maintaining optimal energy
levels throughout the day. Skipping breakfast will send your body into
"starvation mode", and slow its metabolism.
Eat more foods with lean protein
Lean protein requires a lot more energy to burn and digest, which
increases your metabolism. Try eating more chicken and tinned fish, and
you'll see they keep you full and satisfied for a longer period of time.
Eat lots of omega-3 rich foods
Omega-3 are fatty acids that have many benefits for your body and boost
their metabolism. Don't let the term "fatty" scare you, these are acids
that help regulate your blood sugar and keep your metabolism steady.
Good sources for omega 3 are foods like avocados, fish, and walnuts.
Eat yogurt
Just yogurt, not some froyo with a ton of cookies, sprinkles and gummy
bears. Simple low-fat yogurt contains nutrients that raise your body's
resting metabolic rate.
Eat dark chocolate
The caffeine and the antioxidants in dark chocolate are both known to be
metabolism boosters. However, make sure you eat brands with 70% cacao
and above, anything lower has too much sugar and fat in it to be
healthy.
Take some time to breathe
It might sound silly, but taking a few minutes every day to focus on
some deep breathing is very beneficial. Deep relaxed breathing brings
more oxygen into your body, which helps you burn more energy.
Eat healthy snacks
Small healthy snacks during the day can keep your energy level
consistent. This will keep your metabolism high by maintaining normal
blood sugar levels at all times of the day. Remember not to overdo it,
so you'll still be able to eat normal-sized regular meals. Only eat
healthy snacks.
Eat nuts
Walnuts, pecans, and pistachios contain many vitamins, minerals and
essential fatty acids that aid in boosting metabolism. A handful a day
is more than enough and is also a good idea for a healthy snack.
Spice up your food
Spicy foods and condiments contain capsaicin, which been shown to increase metabolic rates by increasing your hormone levels.
Drink green tea
Green tea contains phenols, chemical compounds that increase your body’s ability to burn calories.
Don't skip meals
Much like skipping breakfast, skipping any other meal is just as bad for
your metabolism. If you're hungry, just eat and make sure it's healthy
food.
Drink water
Green tea, coffee, and energy drinks may all have their benefits but
nothing beats a cold glass of water. Drinking six cups of cold water a
day can boost your metabolism by burning up to an extra 50 calories a
day.
Relax
Taking the time to alleviate your stress will benefit your life in more
ways than one. Stress causes the production of cortisol, which can slow
your metabolism down. So take some time to read a book, listen to some
music or take a massage, whatever helps you relax.
Eat a light snack before sleep
To keep your nocturnal metabolism high as well as your daily metabolism,
eat a light snack before going to bed. If you've just had a big meal,
wait at least 2 hours before going to sleep.
Get a good night's sleep
Rest is essential for a healthy metabolism. Sleeping for eight hours
every night will increase your energy levels throughout the day. It will
also help keep stress hormones and blood sugar levels stable, an
important part of any healthy lifestyle.