9 Unlikely Foods That Boost Metabolism

Your metabolism plays a major role whether you’re trying to lose or gain weight. If it’s fast, you burn more calories; if it’s slow, you burn fewer.

Fortunately, there are many things you can do to help speed it up, including making dietary changes.

In this post, we’ll explore 9 unlikely foods that boost your metabolism—some of which might just surprise you.

What is Metabolism

Metabolism is a chemical process within the body that turns the food and beverages you consume into energy.

It powers everything you do, from breathing to moving around, and even thinking. It is the driving force behind how efficiently you burn calories.

Your calories dictate how much weight you retain or lose. Understanding metabolism and how it works allows you to make informed lifestyle choices that will best serve your needs.

How to Boost Metabolism Naturally 

Although we’re primarily discussing foods that promote calorie burning, you can use other simple methods to achieve the same goal.

Drinking more water, for instance, can boost your metabolism because the body expends energy to heat the liquid to body temperature.

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) increases energy use by helping you burn excess fat long after the workout.

Strength training enhances your body’s ability to burn calories by building muscle, which needs more energy to maintain than fat.

Additionally, standing or moving throughout the day and getting at least 7 hours of sleep per night can also improve your calorie burn.

Unlikely Foods That Boost Metabolism

When you think about foods that speed up metabolism, you probably picture spices like turmeric and cinnamon or maybe a spicy meal.

I wanted to dig deeper and find items you probably wouldn’t expect to see on this list. So, here are 9 unlikely foods that boost metabolism.

Amaranth

Amaranth is an ancient grain known for its numerous nutritional properties. It’s rich in fiber and protein, both of which are great for metabolism.

Protein isn’t easy to digest, thus the body is forced to work harder, burning more calories in the process.

Fiber, on the other hand, helps stabilize your blood sugar, keeping you feeling full longer and curbing hunger. This means your energy levels and metabolism can remain steady.

Moringa

A moringa is a plant that has had its leaves dried and ground into a green powder. It is loaded with nutrients and antioxidants such as quercetin and chlorogenic acid.

These compounds may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, improving your metabolism.

Moringa is also a plant-based protein that supports muscle growth and maintenance, further aiding the metabolic process.

Guava

Guava is a tropical fruit that is high in fiber and vitamin C.

Fiber, as we know, helps regulate blood sugar, while vitamin C promotes immune health and reduces oxidative stress.

Together, these factors enhance the health and efficiency of your metabolism.

Red Wine

That’s right—red wine! This alcoholic drink is made from fermented dark-colored grapes.

In moderation, red wine provides a compound known as resveratrol.

Resveratrol improves the function of enzymes needed for breaking down fat tissue and expending energy, thereby boosting metabolism. 

Apple Peels

Many people throw out the apple peels but they aren’t just nutritious, they’re good for your metabolism.

They contain a compound called ursolic acid that encourages muscular strength and endurance, thus enhancing your resting metabolic rate.

Ursolic acid may also help the body burn fat, reducing obesity.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is actually made from apple juice and has an intense tangy flavor. The acetic acid found in this vinegar speeds up your metabolism and fat-burning process.

This compound may additionally reduce overall body fat and support metabolic health. 

Miso

Miso is a staple in Japanese culture. Made from fermented soybean paste, it is packed with probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support gut health.

When your gut health is good, your digestion improves, and so does your ability to absorb nutrients. This contributes to a healthier and more efficient metabolism.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a natural stimulant found most notably in coffee, tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks. It comes from coffee beans and numerous other plants.

It’s good for speeding up metabolism because it stimulates the central nervous system.

This amplifies the amount of adrenaline released in the body and effectively breaks down fat leading to a boost in metabolism. 

Cacao

Cacao is chocolate in its purest form. Loaded with nutrients and compounds like theobromine and caffeine.

These compounds elevate your mood and speed up your metabolism. Plus, they increase energy usage and improve physical activity.

Rock Steady Metabolism

When you can effectively regulate your metabolism, it makes sticking to a healthier, active lifestyle easier.

And taking simple steps like incorporating these 9 items into your diet is a good place to start. If you have any questions leave them below. Or send me a message through my contact page!