We all know that portion control is the most sensible way to shed unwanted kilos. But are there certain foods that will ignite your metabolism and promote weight loss?
Your metabolic rate is controlled by many factors, including age, gender, weight, height, diet, genetics and how active you are. If your body metabolises slowly, you will find it more difficult to lose weight. Here are ten superfoods that may ignite your metabolism, leading to a slimmer you.
Black coffee
Can’t start the day without your morning coffee fix? Caffeine, the stimulant contained in coffee, has an immediate effect on fat oxidation, boosting the body’s metabolic rate. To avoid over-stimulation, aim to drink no more than three cups a day.
Grapefruit
The vitamin C found in grapefruit and grapefruit juice is known to regulate fat metabolism. Grapefruit also includes naringenin, which lowers your blood’s insulin levels. Be aware that grapefruit can interact with some drugs so speak to your doctor/nutritionist if you are taking medicines.
Oats
A key to weight loss is not being hungry. Oats are rich in fibre, which helps you to feel full through the day. They also burn fat and boost metabolism.
Almonds
Packed with protein, fibre and healthy omega-3 fatty acids, almonds reduce the glycaemic effect of other carbohydrates. Aim for no more than a handful of soaked or dry-roasted almonds a day.
Ginger
With its thermogenic qualities, ginger causes a rise in your body temperature helping it to burn calories. You can add ginger to your food or, for a fat-boosting beverage, grate raw ginger into hot water.
Apples
It seems that apples can do no wrong. The soluble fibre in apples prevents your cells from absorbing fat and aids water absorption. Plus, apples are full of vitamins and minerals, which assist in converting fats, carbohydrates and protein into energy.
Cinnamon
As a natural stabiliser of blood sugar, cinnamon contains antioxidants and phytochemicals, which both energise metabolism.
Green tea
Green tea contains catechins, which are antioxidants that hinder the storage of stomach fat. If you aim to drink a few cups of green tea a day you will feel hydrated, thus reducing your appetite.
Salmon
Full of good fats and high quality protein, salmon is also the fish most likely to support weight loss – and it has a positive effect on inflammation and insulin sensitivity.
Dark chocolate
It may surprise you to find chocolate on this list but, so long as it’s dark (with high cocoa content) and only consumed in moderation, chocolate contains antioxidants, which help rid the body of free radicals and kick-start the metabolism.
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