Among the strategies we currently have for weight loss, one that scientific studies show plays an important role is metabolism and its energy functions. It seems that foods that boost metabolism and increase energy expenditure can be helpful for weight loss.
This happens because when we are at rest, a large part of the energy used by our body comes from fat tissue. Therefore, speeding up metabolism to lose weight faster makes sense from a scientific point of view.
We already know from scientific studies that some organs tend to use a lot of energy throughout the day to maintain their vital functions, such as the heart, brain, lungs, intestines, liver, and others.
However, these organs are not large in terms of weight, unlike muscle tissue, which is much heavier and, consequently, uses more energy throughout the day.
In other words, the more muscle you have, the more energy you burn throughout the day, and therefore your metabolism will be faster.
What is Metabolism? Our metabolism works by using the energy that cells need to perform their functions.
For example, liver cells at certain times need to work harder and, therefore, use more energy than at times of lower activity (such as after alcohol consumption when your liver works harder compared to times when no alcohol is consumed).
Another example is muscle cells. When you are not exercising, these cells require less energy. However, if you do a high-intensity strength training workout, hours or even days later, these cells will need to regenerate the contractile proteins that were broken down during the workout, in addition to synthesizing various other protein enzymes.
Thus, on training days, your body has to work harder to rebuild the muscle, which increases metabolic demand and speeds up your metabolism.
It’s also important to note that this occurs regardless of age. Even after 30, 40, or 45 years, if you work out daily, you force your body to use more energy, thereby reinforcing a good practice for speeding up your metabolism.
10 Foods That Boost Metabolism
Many people believe there are fruits that boost metabolism, but it’s important to be cautious of this information to avoid being misled by social media.
Some foods contain bioactive compounds that can stimulate metabolism and make it burn more energy. These compounds may work by binding to fat tissue and stimulating the breakdown of that fat through a process called lipolysis.
As lipids are released in the form of fatty acids and glycerol, our body can use these nutrients as an energy source and, consequently, burn them.
Fruits are not part of the list of foods that boost metabolism, but there are some strategies for consuming certain foods, which we’ll discuss below. Some have scientific evidence, while others do not. Check it out!
- Almonds
Almonds are a source of mono and polyunsaturated fats but do not contribute to boosting metabolism. - Tuna
Although tuna is a protein source, it does not significantly boost metabolism. - Broccoli
There is no scientific evidence to support broccoli’s effectiveness in boosting metabolism. - Apple Cider Vinegar
There is no scientific evidence to support apple cider vinegar’s effectiveness in boosting metabolism. - Coffee
Coffee has the ability to stimulate metabolism and is considered a metabolism-boosting food. - Cinnamon
Cinnamon also has the ability to stimulate metabolism, making it a food that boosts this process. - Green Tea
Green tea can provide an extra boost to metabolism and is categorized as a metabolism-boosting food. - Ginger
Ginger also stimulates metabolism, making it a food that boosts it. - Guarana
Guarana stimulates metabolism and is considered a metabolism-boosting food. - Red Pepper
Red pepper also stimulates metabolism and is categorized as a metabolism-boosting food.
How to Speed Up Metabolism? There are some tips that can help you speed up your metabolism, such as getting enough sleep.
Sleep is something we often overlook, but it’s extremely important to restore the body’s energy functions, as well as to repair chemical functions and promote muscle recovery.
In addition to exercising daily at the gym, it’s also essential to stay active throughout the day. The more we move, the more energy we use, and this not only speeds up metabolism but also reduces fat tissue, helping with weight loss.