Before we get into the 10 foods that speed metabolism, let’s take a quick look at metabolism and how it works. This will help us understand the process, how it affects our bodies, and why certain foods are important to weight loss and fighting fat.

All Foods Speed Metabolism?

Metabolism, basically, is the process of turning food into energy, whether it is to be used by the body immediately, or stored as fat to be used later. When we consume food, the digestive process draws out the nutrients from the food and uses them to create the energy that keeps our bodies functioning properly and efficiently. This process is repeated each time that we consume food, and takes approximately 4 hours.

In short, during the digestive process, our bodies burn calories. Simply by eating, digesting and absorbing nutrients from the food, we fuel our metabolism. Some foods, especially those containing carbohydrates and protein, take longer to digest than other foods.

Should You Eat More to Stimulate Calorie Burning?

The surprising answer here is yes. But not how you might think. Eating more in this case refers to eating more often. By eating smaller meals, more often, throughout the day, you can keep your metabolism working so that your body is constantly in a state of calorie burning. On the other hand, skipping breakfast or other meals will reduce how quickly your body burns calories. Aim for 5-6 small meals per day, and never go more than 3 hours at a time without eating, for optimum results.

As mentioned, carbohydrates and proteins trigger the highest rate of metabolism. In fact, a protein meal can burn as much as 25% of that meal’s calories through digestion and absorption. But since healthy weight loss requires good, well balanced nutition, add non-starchy vegetables, healthy fats, and carbs to each meal. This can minimize fat production, while at the same time keeping your blood sugar at a level that helps to burn fat and build muscle.

Caffeine-loaded energy drinks, sodas, coffee, tea, chocolate, and capsaicin (the compound found in hot peppers) minimally and temporarily speed metabolism, but are not always good choices nutritionally, due to high sugar content or calorie counts.

10 Foods That Speed Metabolism

Focus on these 10 specific foods that can help speed metabolism and burn fat:

Whole grain breads
Lean chicken
Salmon
Eggs
Fresh Cheese
Green Beans
Summer Squash
Cabbage
Asparagus
Lean, protein rich red meat

To temporarily boost your metabolism by as much as 30%, drink cold water.

Metabolic rate can be influenced by other factors, including age, sex, weight, and medical condition. While these 10 foods can speed metabolism, remember that the best way to lose weight is with a healthy combination of regular meals and physical exercise, especially exercise that builds lean muscle mass.

—Coach Brad