Makeover Your Metabolism: 5 Foods That Boost Your Metabolism

May 11, 2011

Written By: Cindy Sherratt, Personal Trainer @ O2 Fitness Brennan

Some of us may be blessed with faster metabolisms, but that doesn’t mean that genetics have total control. Here are 5 fabulous foods that will give your metabolism a run for its money, which is especially important for women over 30 since metabolism naturally slows about 5 percent a decade after we turn 30! (Eek !)

5 Metabolism-Boosting Foods:

Munch on Sunflower Seeds – These tasty little seeds are a great source of protein. It’s important to include plenty of protein in our diets because this nutrient serves as the building block for all of our tissues and cells. It also provides us with energy after our carbohydrate resources are gone, thus boosting our metabolism! Sunflower seeds are loaded with beneficial nutrients that include magnesium, copper, selenium and vitamin E. So, pack a bag of unsalted (raw is best!) sunflower seeds when you are on the go! Healthy Recipe: Spinach, Sunflower Seed & Cranberry Summer Salad

Try some Tuna – Tuna is a very popular food with many of the world’s bodybuilders, and for good reason! It’s an excellent source of protein that helps to boost our metabolism as well as an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, potassium, selenium and vitamin B12. Just make sure you eat tuna in moderation, because it can be high in mercury. Healthy Recipe: Zesty Tuna Salad

Boost up with Beans – Beans are bursting with nutrients that help boost our metabolism. They are loaded with fiber (to help keep our digestive systems in working order) and are also packed with protein, calcium, potassium and magnesium. So, try to eat 2-3 servings of beans a week. If you are purchasing canned beans, make sure they are organic and low in sodium – although the most beneficial way to eat beans is to buy them dry and soak them overnight. Healthy Recipe: Warm Artichoke, Fava Bean & Shitake Salad

Get some Grapefruit – Grapefruit is a great way to start the day since the chemical properties in grapefruit can reduce insulin levels, boosting metabolism. Plus, this citrus fruit is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium and fiber. Healthy Recipe: Fennel and Grapefruit Summer Salad

Sip some Green Tea – Aside from its cancer-preventing properties, studies show that green tea can boost your metabolism, lower your cholesterol and even increase your immunity too. Try getting in the habit of having a cup of green tea every day – and add a squirt of lemon to your cup for a powerful boost of free-radical fighting vitamin C as well. Healthy Recipe: Peachy Iced Green Tea Recipe



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