Scientists call this energy expenditure the thermic effect of food TEF , or diet-induced thermogenesis DIT. Flaxseeds are seeds that contain protein, vitamins , and other key nutrients.

Eating flaxseeds could help boost metabolism and improve metabolic syndrome, which is a group of conditions that contribute to diabetes , obesity, and cardiovascular disease. At present, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH is funding research into the role of flaxseeds for metabolic syndrome.

A study on mice indicates that flaxseeds may boost metabolism. This is probably because they contain good amounts of fiber and protein, along with essential omega-3 fats, antioxidants , and other essential nutrients.

This process aids metabolic health, and it may protect against obesity. Studies suggest that flaxseeds and their nutrients may also help treat or protect against:.

Lentils are another functional food that may reduce the effects of metabolic syndrome. A review of 41 animal studies reports that eating lentils and other legumes, such as beans and peas, can play a central role in preventing and treating metabolic syndrome.

Lentils may also increase metabolism because they are rich in protein. They also contain good amounts of fiber to feed beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Spicy meals that contain fresh or dried chili peppers can increase metabolism and a feeling of fullness. A compound in peppers, called capsaicin, is responsible for these health benefits and more.

A study reports that eating capsaicin boosts metabolic rate modestly. The research also suggests that the compound can contribute to weight management in other ways by increasing the speed at which the body burns fat and reducing appetite.

This builds on existing research , published in , which indicates that capsaicin helps the body to burn approximately 50 extra calories each day. Capsaicin may also reduce pain and inflammation , act as an anticancer agent, and provide antioxidant benefits. Adding ginger to meals could increase body temperature and metabolic rate, and help control appetite.

Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties, and it may help to reduce nausea during pregnancy and after chemotherapy treatment. Green tea has received plenty of attention in recent years as researchers have shed light on its potential health benefits. Several studies suggest that green tea extract GTE may increase fat metabolism both at rest and during exercise.

However, other research reports no notable effects. Furthermore, scientists cannot guarantee that drinking green tea would have the same results as taking GTE. A small-scale study involving 63 people with type 2 diabetes suggests that drinking 4 cups of green tea daily can significantly reduce body weight, body mass index BMI , waist size, and systolic blood pressure.

Other proposed health benefits of green tea include:. Coffee can stimulate metabolism thanks to its caffeine content. Research reports that caffeine intake has a stimulating effect on energy expenditure and can lead to increased metabolism. However, it is essential to be mindful of total consumption.

Learn about how much caffeine is too much, here. Decaffeinated coffee does not have the same metabolism boosting benefits. Brazil nuts are one of the richest sources of selenium , a mineral that is essential for metabolism, reproduction, and immune function.

They also contain protein and healthful fats to make people feel fuller. Selenium is especially important for the thyroid gland, a gland that regulates metabolic function and produces several vital hormones. According to the National Institutes of Health NIH , each Brazil nut provides 68 to 91 micrograms mcg of selenium, which is more than the recommended dietary allowance RDA of 55 mcg per day.

People should avoid eating too many nuts, however, as this can cause selenium toxicity. The NIH set upper limits of selenium intake at mcg. Research also suggests that Brazil nuts can improve the cholesterol levels of healthy people.

Abnormal cholesterol levels are a marker of metabolic syndrome. Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables may also prevent or slow down several forms of cancer.

For more significant metabolism enhancing effects, look for Beneforte broccoli, which contains high levels of glucoraphanin.

Spinach, kale , and other leafy green vegetables may boost metabolism thanks to their iron content. Iron is an essential mineral for metabolism, growth, and development.

Leafy greens are a source of non-heme, or non-animal, iron. Many leafy greens also provide good amounts of magnesium , another mineral that supports metabolic function and plays a role in over processes in the body. Eating a healthful diet is essential for regulating metabolism.

Other ways to boost metabolic function include:. According to one small-scale study , drinking an extra 1, milliliters ml of water daily can decrease body weight and BMI in some people who are overweight.

Participants drank ml before each meal. The researchers suggest that this is due to water-induced thermogenesis, where water increases metabolism. Research suggests that a lack of sleep may be contributing to the trend of increasing obesity and diabetes, which are consequences of metabolic syndrome.

According to the CDC , adults should aim to sleep for 7 to 9 hours a night. To improve sleep patterns, try to go to bed and get up at the same time each day. Lifting weights regularly allows people to gain and retain muscle mass and to burn fat.

The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults should perform strengthening exercises 2 or more days each week. A study on sedentary women found that resistance training increased the overall basal metabolic rate BMR for up to 48 hours.

But there are a lot of myths related to the impact metabolism has on your health, especially in terms of weight loss. In simple terms, metabolism is the internal process by which your body expends energy and burns calories.

This process works at different intensities in different people. How fast your metabolism works is determined mostly by your genes. Chih-Hao Lee, professor of genetics and complex diseases at Harvard's T.

Chan School of Public Health. Age also affects metabolism, as it can slow over the years, even if you start out with a fast metabolism. Differences in metabolism speed are evident in how easy or hard it is for people to gain or lose weight.

A slow metabolism burns fewer calories, which means more get stored as fat in the body; that's why some people have difficulty losing weight by just cutting calories.

A fast metabolism burns calories at a quicker rate, which explains why some people can eat a lot and not gain extra pounds. But you can't entirely blame a sluggish metabolism for weight gain, says Dr. Is it possible to speed up a naturally slow metabolism, or rev up one that has become sluggish over time?

That, along with adopting a healthier diet and making sure you get enough exercise, may give people the extra push they need to lose and maintain weight. Pick up the pace. Add some high-intensity interval training to your regular routine.

After a period of interval training, your metabolism can stay revved up for as much as a full day. For example, when you're walking or jogging on a treadmill or outside, speed up for 30 to 60 seconds, and then slow to your usual pace; repeat the cycle for eight to 12 minutes.

Eat protein and do weight training. Your metabolism increases whenever you eat, digest, and store food, a process called thermic effect of food. Protein has a higher thermic effect compared with fats and carbohydrates because it takes longer for your body to burn protein and absorb it.

It's not clear how much of an effect protein has on metabolism, but studies suggest the best approach is to combine adequate protein intake with weight training, which increases muscle mass — and that also can boost metabolism. Drink green tea. Studies have found green tea contains a compound called epigallocatechin gallate, which may increase the calories and fat you burn.

A meta-analysis published in Obesity Reviews found that consuming about milligrams of epigallocatechin gallate the amount in about three cups of green tea helped boost metabolism enough to burn an average of extra calories a day.

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Two sets of participants went on a diet that reduced their energy intake by 1, calories a day. One of these groups ate two eggs for at least five days a week for breakfast and the other group consumed the same amount of calories but ate bagels. The egg eaters lost 65 percent more body weight, 16 percent more body fat, had a 61 percent greater reduction in body mass index BMI and a 34 percent greater reduction in waist circumference.

The study also looked at two other groups of participants, who did not go on a reduced-calorie diet but followed the same egg or bagel plan. No statistical differences in weight or fat loss were shown between these sets. Refined grains have the germ and bran removed.

This gives them a finer texture and longer storage life, according to Mayo Clinic. You can find them in white bread, white pasta, white rice, many pastry items, and processed, packaged foods.

Unfortunately, they can sabotage weight loss. A study linked a weight gain of 0. Refined grains contain empty calories, lack fiber, and can cause blood sugar spikes. A study found that eating a high-protein meal with a sugar-sweetened drink may negatively impact energy balance, reduce fat metabolism, and cause the body to store more fat.

Since alcohol consumption also negatively affects blood sugar , you might crave sugary foods after a few glasses of wine and the next day feel unmotivated to exercise. A review found that heavy drinking and binge drinking are associated with an increased risk for obesity.

Instead, look for granola made with percent whole grains, nuts, and a limited amount of dried fruit, and avoid those with added sugar and oils.

Soybean oil is high in calories and omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation and may contribute to weight gain.

A study noted that soybean oil is the component in the American diet that has increased the most over the past century, paralleling a rise in obesity. Decreasing omega-6 fatty acids and increasing omega-3 fatty acids can aid weight loss, according to a review.

Swap soybean oil and other oils high in omega-6 fatty acids for olive oil or flaxseed oil, or eat fatty fish such as salmon. Rather than making a swap in this case, avoid the processed food altogether and choose whole foods.

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Roxana Ehsani, RD, LDN. What Is Metabolism, and How Does It Work? What Affects Our Metabolism, for Better or Worse? How Does Eating Certain Foods Help Rev Up Your Metabolism? Six of the Best Foods to Help Boost Your Metabolism 1.

Chili Pepper. Whole Grains. Five Foods to Cut Back On When It Comes to Metabolism 1. Refined Grains. Sugary Beverages. Soybean Oil. Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking. Resources Surprising Findings About Metabolism and Age. Harvard Health Publishing. October 8, Metabolism and Weight Loss: How You Burn Calories.

Mayo Clinic. Wien M, Haddad E, Oda K, Sabaté J. A Randomized 3x3 Crossover Study to Evaluate the Effect of Hass Avocado Intake on Post-Ingestive Satiety, Glucose and Insulin Levels, and Subsequent Energy Intake in Overweight Adults.

Nutrition Journal. November 27, Avocados, Raw, All Commercial Varieties. April 1, Dror T, Dickstein Y, Dubourg G, Paul M. Microbiota Manipulation for Weight Change. Microbial Pathogenesis. May Zheng J, Zheng S, Feng Q, et al. Dietary Capsaicin and Its Anti-Obesity Potency: From Mechanism to Clinical Implications.

This may happen because the additional water helps the body burn fat preferentially over carbohydrate. How much water should I drink each day? Stress affects hormone levels, and it can cause the body to produce more cortisol than usual.

Cortisol is a hormone that helps regulate appetite. In , researchers found unusually high cortisol levels in people with disordered eating. The body releases cortisol in times of stress. However, the authors of a small study found no evidence linking resting metabolic rate and anxiety.

Stress could also have an indirect impact by affecting eating patterns and sleep, both of which can alter the rate of metabolism. Why does stress happen, and how can I manage it?

People who have less sleep may have a lower metabolic rate, according to research from The study took place in a sleep laboratory, and participants slept 4 hours per night for 5 nights followed by one night of 12 hours sleep.

Their metabolic rate fell after the nights with little sleep but returned to their usual levels after the night of recovery sleep.

The authors believed the body reduces metabolic rate to conserve energy when a person sleeps less. They noted this could lead to weight gain in people who do not get enough sleep. The need for sleep varies between individuals, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC recommend that adults aged 18—60 should have at least 7 hours per night.

What should you do if you have trouble sleeping? The results of a rodent experiment from suggested that a low intake of various B vitamins could impact the rate at which the body metabolizes lipids, including cholesterol and triglycerides. More research may be needed to understand the relationship between vitamins, metabolism, and weight loss.

A complete guide to B vitamins, types, sources, and more. Some research has suggested that eating spices such as chili, which contains capsaicin, can increase metabolic rate, including the rate at which the body burns fat and uses energy. A study from China found that people who ate spicy food every day were more likely to have a high body mass index BMI than those who did not.

The researchers noted that more investigations are needed to find out why this happens. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says that while eating hot chilies might boost metabolic rate temporarily, it is unlikely to have a significant impact.

What are some healthy herbs and spices? Thyroid hormone stimulates the production of substances that increase oxygen consumption, respiration rate, and body temperature.

This involves a higher rate of energy consumption. Conversely, the body of a person with hypothyroidism is likely to burn energy at lower rate. Their metabolic rate may be slower, and they may have a higher risk of weight gain and obesity.

For those with hypothyroidism, taking medications that increase the levels of thyroid hormone can increase their resting metabolic rate. Seeking help for hypothyroidism can help speed up metabolic rate and reduce the risk of complications linked to this condition. What is hypothyroidism and how can you recognize it?

Metabolic rate refers to the rate at which the body uses energy and burns calories. The body uses most of its energy this way. Metabolic rates vary widely between individuals, so it is not possible to specify a standard or high metabolic rate.

However, the higher the rate, the quicker a person will use the energy they take in from food, which may reduce the chance of weight gain.

It is not always possible for a person to change their metabolic rate, but exercise and dietary measures may help. A good metabolic rate may help with weight management. But for those seeking to lose weight, it is better to focus on eating a varied diet with plenty of whole foods and being physically active.

While some foods, such as spices, may help boost rates temporarily, they are not a long term solution. It is always best to speak with a doctor before adjusting the diet or making changes to an exercise routine. Metabolism is the process the body uses to break down food and nutrients for energy, as well as to support different body functions.

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Medical News Today. Health Conditions Health Products Discover Tools Connect. How to increase your metabolism. Medically reviewed by Adam Bernstein, MD, ScD — By Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA — Updated on December 9, Eat at regular times. Eat enough calories. Eat more protein. Drink green tea.

Do resistance training. Drink enough water. Reduce stress. Get enough sleep. Get enough vitamins.

Spreading your meals throughout the day might keep you from getting too hungry and overeating. If so, it is a good idea. Athletes perform better when they eat more often in smaller amounts.

If you are someone who has a hard time stopping once you start eating, 3 meals a day may make it easier for you to stick to an appropriate intake than lots of little snacks. What to do: Pay attention to your hunger cues and eat when you feel hungry.

Keep track of your daily diet and limit high-sugar, high-fat snacks. A good night's sleep will not boost your metabolism but going without sleep can add weight.

Sleep-deprived people tend to eat more calories than they need, possibly to deal with feeling tired. What to do: Plan your schedule so you have enough time for sleep. If you have trouble sleeping, look into ways to unwind before bedtime and make your bedroom comfortable for sleep. Talk to your health care provider if self-care tips for better sleep do not help.

While it is true that our metabolism is slower than when we were kids, a lot of mid-life weight gain happens because we become less active. Jobs and family push exercise to the back burner.

When we do not move as much, we lose muscle and gain fat. As you get older, you may also have trouble regulating your meals. After a big meal, younger people tend to eat less until their bodies use up the calories.

This natural appetite control seems to fade as people get older. Unless you pay close attention, big meals can quickly add up. What to do: As you get older, it is important to make exercise a regular part of every day.

By staying active and sticking with smaller portions of healthy foods, you can ward off weight gain as you age. Cowley MA, Brown WA, Considine RV. Obesity: the problem and its management. In: Jameson JL, De Groot LJ, de Kretser DM, et al, eds.

Endocrinology: Adult and Pediatric. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; chap Maratos-Flier E. Genetics, body fat, health status, thyroid function, and physical activity influence metabolism.

While there are ways to promote metabolic function, products that promise to boost your metabolism may not be effective. This article contains evidence-based strategies to boost your metabolism and support your overall health naturally.

It converts calories from food to energy for cell function and reproduction. This process keeps you breathing and walking and keeps your heart pumping. Your body converts the nutrients in food—sugars, proteins , vitamins, carbohydrates , fats, and amino acids—into a molecular form that cells can digest, known as adenosine triphosphate ATP.

This releases units of energy calories that your body uses immediately or stores in body fat for later use. The thyroid gland regulates your metabolism. Overactivity of this gland hyperthyroidism increases metabolism to the degree that makes it hard to store body fat, often leading to unintended weight loss.

Various factors affect your metabolism; some of which are in your control, and others are not. The factors influencing your metabolism you can control are called modifiable risk factors. These changeable factors include:.

Various medical factors can contribute to metabolism function, including:. You can naturally boost your metabolism by modifying your diet, sleep, and exercise habits. The following are evidence-based strategies for a natural metabolism boost.

Diets high in protein , such as meats, eggs, fish, and nuts, increase your metabolism and calorie burn. The metabolism process requires fluids, which is why water intake is essential. This effect lasts up to an hour due to water-induced thermogenesis, a sympathetic nervous system response that increases your metabolic rate.

Drinking water consistently during the day helps your body burn more calories. High-intensity workouts, such as high-intensity interval training HIIT , involve brief, intense periods of heavy aerobic exercise followed by extended periods of lower-intensity work. Your physical activity influences metabolism, and HIIT has a particular effect.

In one study, the energy spent at rest resting energy expenditure up to an hour following HIIT was higher, even compared to aerobic exercise. Strength training, such as resistance bands or lifting weights, can also positively affect your metabolism. In a study of sedentary women, six weeks of moderate resistance training increased their resting metabolic rate.

At rest, a person who strength-trains regularly burns more calories daily. Green and oolong tea has traditionally been touted to have numerous health benefits. Among them is that regular consumption can boost your metabolism. Though the evidence is mixed, some research suggests two compounds in this tea—caffeine and catechins —may increase metabolic function.

Chili peppers and spicy foods contain capsaicin , which affects metabolism. In a broad-ranging review, researchers noted evidence that diets emphasizing this substance improved the signs of metabolic disease disorders affecting the metabolism and helped manage obesity.

There are many health benefits to ensuring that you get enough sleep, which for adults should be seven to eight hours a night. Among them is that getting better sleep is linked with improved metabolism, but the growing consensus is that this effect is indirect.

While sleep deprivation may not directly impact metabolism, it raises the risk of weight gain, obesity, and diabetes, which do have an effect on metabolism. This involves:. The caffeine in coffee, tea, or other beverages might be more than just a morning pick-me-up.

People in this study did not make any other lifestyle or dietary changes, further supporting the hypothesis that caffeine contributes to an elevated metabolic rate. Since the body requires energy to digest food, you can improve your metabolism by snacking regularly throughout the day. Healthcare providers sometimes recommend this strategy to help people manage obesity.

While medical literature has shown snacking provides some benefits for certain people, like athletes, there is little evidence of a direct metabolic effect. If you snack, choose nutrient-dense options over foods like cookies, chips, and those with added salts and sugars.

The healthiest snacks are nuts, fresh fruit, and vegetables. Additional ways to boost your metabolism include being active, avoiding crash diets, and reducing stress. Having a sedentary lifestyle can adversely affect your health.

It raises the risk of obesity, affects bone and muscle development, and impacts your metabolism. If you sit for work or are constantly seated at home, take breaks to stand or walk. One study comparing data from Southeast Asia and the United States showed that taking a break to stand or walk every 30 minutes boosted metabolic health in older adults.

Countless dietary fads promise to boost your metabolism and manage your weight. Crash diets focusing on severe food restrictions can prevent your body from getting the nutrients it needs. Aim to eat a variety of foods that provide sufficient calories and essential vitamins and minerals.

Blood flow and energy expenditure are redirected from digestion and metabolism to the muscles and the brain. This slows your metabolic rate, and if the stress persists, this can cause long-term effects. Ginger and related spices are thought to have particularly beneficial metabolism-boosting properties.

Ginger may help with weight management, obesity prevention, and energy metabolism For instance, older research shows that dissolving 2 grams of ginger powder in hot water and drinking it with a meal may help you burn up to 43 more calories than drinking hot water alone This hot ginger drink may also decrease hunger levels and enhance feelings of satiety, or fullness Cacao and cocoa are tasty treats that may also benefit your metabolism.

Flavonoids in cacao and cacao byproducts may help support metabolic actions and help reduce hypertriglyceridemia Another research review suggests that cocoa and dark chocolate may help reduce body weight, a factor that can contribute to the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular disorders Processing tends to reduce the amounts of beneficial compounds and add extra sugar and calories MCT oil is a unique type of fat that may offer some metabolic benefits.

Most fats found in foods are long-chain triglycerides, but MCT oil comprises medium-chain triglycerides. Some older studies have shown that MCT oil consumption can increase metabolic rate in humans.

Additionally, unlike long-chain fats, once MCTs are absorbed, they go directly to the liver to be turned into energy. This makes them less likely to be stored as body fat 19 , 20 , MCT oil is typically taken as a supplement, although it can be added to foods like soups or smoothies.

Drinking enough water is a great way to stay hydrated. However, the effects only appear to last for 40—90 minutes after drinking water. The strength of the effect may vary from person to person.

Seaweed is rich in iodine , a mineral required to produce thyroid hormones and for your thyroid gland to function properly Thyroid hormones have various functions, one of which is to regulate your metabolic rate 3. Regularly consuming seaweed can help you meet your iodine needs and maintain your metabolic health.

Five foods that can support your metabolism include those high in protein and minerals that benefit your thyroid function, such as:. Certain foods may help slightly increase your metabolic rate, or how many calories you burn. Consuming them regularly may help you lose weight and manage your weight in the long term.

However, these foods will not negate a poor quality diet. For effective, lasting weight loss and weight management, seek a gradual reduction in calories and choose mostly whole, minimally processed foods.

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