But it can add or subtract hundreds of calories each day. Obese people expend more calories, on average, than lean people during most activities, in part because it takes more effort to move around. But they tend to be more sedentary, which makes it harder to get rid of body fat.

It's part truth and part myth that metabolism is the key to weight. The rising tide of obesity in this country cannot be blamed entirely on an inherited tendency to have a slow metabolism. Genes do not change that quickly.

Something environmental — particularly, changes in diet and exercising too little — are much more likely culprits. Age can be a factor, too, although new evidence suggests metabolism reaches a peak earlier in life and slows down much later than previously thought.

The reality is that for most people, excess weight is not all due to bad luck, thyroid trouble or some other unexplained, uncontrollable external factor.

For most of us, calories in, calories out has a strong influence on changes in weight over a lifetime. Regardless of whether your metabolism is fast or slow, our bodies are designed to store excess energy in fat cells.

So, if you eat and drink more calories energy "intake" than your body expends energy "output" you will gain weight. On the other hand, if you eat and drink fewer calories than are burned through everyday activities including exercise, rest and sleep , you'll lose weight.

Our bodies are also programmed to sense a lack of food as starvation. In response, our BMR slows down, which means fewer calories burned over time. That's one reason why losing weight is often difficult. Perhaps the most remarkable thing about all of this is how little our weight tends to change from day to day.

In fact, only a few excess calories each day could lead to significant weight gain at the end of a year. For example, eating an extra apple each day could lead to a weight gain of nearly 9 pounds by the end of one year! Similarly, even a small reduction in calories each day could lead to remarkable weight loss.

Eliminating dessert one day a week would lead to weight loss of nearly six pounds in a year. Many theories exist to explain what controls the amount of food a person eats, when they feel full and why they eat past the point of feeling full.

These factors also play a role in determining one's ultimate weight. One theory is that each of us has a set point — a weight at which the body is "happy.

That may be another reason it is so hard to lose excess weight. But how that set point is determined and whether there truly is such a mechanism remain uncertain.

When it comes to weight, metabolism is important and does have a genetic component. Read on to discover 10 of the best metabolism boosting foods, along with some other ways to increase metabolic function. Eggs are rich in protein, with each large, hard-boiled egg containing 6.

Protein is one of the most effective nutrients for increasing metabolic rate because the body needs to use more energy to digest it than it does for fats or carbohydrates. 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.

Water is necessary for optimal metabolism, and it may help a person lose weight. In , scientists assessed the metabolic rate of 13 people who consumed either or milliliters ml of water.

They found evidence of increased fat oxidation after ml when a person is at rest, and concluded that drinking water may have an impact on metabolism. However, they did not find that it increased metabolic rate.

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.

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I want to get healthier. 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. BMR refers to the number of calories that the body burns while resting. Many foods, including green vegetables, chili peppers, and protein sources, can boost metabolism and help people achieve or maintain a healthy weight.

Other lifestyle changes that improve metabolic health include drinking enough water, getting adequate sleep, and exercise activities. The Everlywell Metabolism Test measures the levels of cortisol, thyroid stimulating hormone, and free testosterone in the body.

Learn what the results…. Evidence suggests that sauerkraut may provide various health benefits, including supporting gut health. Learn more here.

While guarana does contain more caffeine than coffee, both have potential benefits when consumed in moderation.

How much sleep do you need to avoid this? Some people swear by a few hours, but experts recommend hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Secret 2: Wake up earlier Does your morning ritual consist only of showering, brushing your teeth and getting dressed?

Eating — especially a balanced breakfast every day — stimulates your metabolism. Check out these 10 healthy breakfast ideas. Secondly, you should exercise. It boosts your metabolism. Even a minute walk or jog will make a difference.

Here are 5 morning exercises to start your day. Secret 3: Get active Sounds impossible, but you can - and should - work out every day. Cardiovascular exercise running, swimming, aerobics, walking stimulates your metabolism, helps you burn calories and can even temporarily suppress your appetite post-workout.

Weight training is important too, because it tones your muscles and boosts lean tissue mass, which burns more calories per pound than fat. The more lean muscle tissue you have, the more calories you burn daily.

Breaking up a minute workout into two minute or three minute sessions is not only convenient, but also it may help you burn more fat, according to recent research.

Hate exercise? Here are 12 workout tips. Secret 4: Eat all day Forget about three large square meals a day. Graze on healthy snacks or nosh on smaller meals instead. Learn about the waist-to-hip ratio, its pros and cons, and how to find yours.

Patients with diabetes who used GLP-1 drugs, including tirzepatide, semaglutide, dulaglutide, and exenatide had a decreased chance of being diagnosed….

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A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Metabolism Boosters: Weight Loss Fact or Fiction? Medically reviewed by Peggy Pletcher, M. Metabolism Boosters Takeaway Share on Pinterest. How does metabolism work? Do metabolism boosters work?

The takeaway. How we reviewed this article: Sources. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Sep 29, Written By Susan York Morris.

Jul 27, Medically Reviewed By Peggy Pletcher, MS, RD, LD, CDE. Share this article. Read this next. Metabolic Diet Review: Fact or Fiction? Medically reviewed by Natalie Butler, R.

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Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. What Is the Waist-to-Hip Ratio? Medically reviewed by Angela M. Besides the basal metabolic rate, two other things decide how many calories a body burns each day:.

How much a body moves. Any movement, such as playing tennis, walking to a store or chasing the dog, makes up the rest of the calories a body burns each day.

This can be changed a lot, both by doing more exercise and just moving more during the day. Daily activity that isn't exercise is called nonexercise activity thermogenesis NEAT.

This includes walking around the house. It also includes activities such as gardening and housework, and even fidgeting. NEAT accounts for about to calories used daily. You might want to blame a medical condition for slow metabolism and weight gain.

But rarely does a medical condition slow metabolism enough to cause a lot of weight gain. Conditions that can cause weight gain include Cushing syndrome or having an underactive thyroid gland, also known as hypothyroidism. These conditions are uncommon. Many things affect weight gain.

These likely include genes, hormones, diet and lifestyle, including sleep, physical activity and stress. You gain weight when you eat more calories than you burn — or burn fewer calories than you eat.

Some people seem to lose weight more quickly and more easily than others. But everyone loses weight by burning more calories than are eaten. The bottom line is calories count. To lose weight, you need to eat fewer calories or burn more calories through physical activity.

Or you can do both. You can't easily control the speed of your basal metabolic rate, but you can control how many calories you burn through physical activity. The more active you are, the more calories you burn. In fact, some people who seem to have a fast metabolism are probably just more active — and maybe fidget more — than others.

Aerobic activity. As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. If you want to lose weight, maintain weight loss or meet specific fitness goals, you may need to exercise more.

Moderate aerobic exercise includes activities such as brisk walking, biking, swimming and mowing the lawn. Vigorous aerobic exercise includes activities such as running, heavy yardwork and aerobic dancing. Don't look to dietary supplements for help in burning calories or losing weight. Products that claim to speed up metabolism usually don't live up to their claims.

Some may cause bad side effects. The U. Food and Drug Administration doesn't ask for proof that dietary supplements are safe or that they work. Question the claims that are made.

Always let your health care providers know about supplements you take. There's no easy way to lose weight. To take in fewer calories than you burn, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends cutting to calories a day to lose 1 to 1.

Add more physical activity to get to your weight-loss goals faster and maintain your weight loss. A health care provider, such as a doctor or registered dietitian, can help you explore ways to lose weight.

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