Green tea contains a chemical called EGCG which sparks a process in the body known as thermogenesis (aka "fat burning"). Research has also linked daily green tea consumption with increased metabolism and a smaller waistline.
2. Oats
Oats have a very
beneficial effect on blood sugar and insulin, which can keep metabolism in
fat-burning mode. They're also a rich source of fiber, which helps you stay
fuller longer as well as slows the absorption of fat through the small
intestines.
3. Chili peppers
Spice up your
meals! Capsaicin, the chemical that gives peppers their fiery kick, has been
shown to rev up metabolism. An UCLA study found that dieters who took capsaicin
doubled their energy expenditure for several hours after eating
4. Lean meats
Protein is
essential for maintaining muscle mass -- the more muscle mass you have, the
more efficient you are at burning calories. Even better, protein requires more
calories for your body to digest than either fat or carbs. Just be selective
about your protein source -- only opt for lean meats such as skinless chicken
and turkey breast and lean cuts of beef
5. Fatty fish
Fatty fish (such as
tuna, salmon, mackerel) are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which fire up fat
burning. These fatty acids lower levels of the hormone leptin in your body,
which directly influences your metabolism: The higher your leptin levels, the
more readily your body stores calories as fat.
6. Coffee
Coffee does more
than perk you up, a cuppa also provides enough caffeine to raise metabolism.
"Caffeine increases the release of fat from fat cells and boosts the
consumption of oxygen and fat burning," Too much caffeine, however, has side effects
including increased heart rate, so drink in moderation.
7. Water
Ok water is not food but it has a
direct impact on many metabolic pathways. Adequate fluid intake also helps prevent
overeating. Much of what we perceive as hunger is actually thirst, You can
demonstrate this for yourself by simply drinking a glass of water next time you
feel hungry. Half the time the hunger will be gone in a few minutes.
