Have you struggled — perhaps for a long time — to shed those unwanted pounds?
If so, you’re not alone.
While certain medical conditions and poor eating habits may be a factor, we’re all products of our genetics. Our metabolisms and the way our bodies use calories are strongly influenced by our genetic makeup.
Does that mean that your weight loss efforts are doomed? Not at all. The key is to find the right weight loss solution for you.
Even if you have a sluggish metabolism, the good news is it’s possible to speed it up. You just have to add the right fat melting food to your daily diet.
Here’s our list of the ten best fat melting foods to rev up your metabolism.
1. Celery
Low in calories but packed with water and fiber, celery should be at the top of your fat melting food list.
It takes a lot of effort for your body to digest all that fiber–great news for your metabolism. Because it’s also a diuretic, it requires even more energy to digest and pass.
Chow down on some celery sticks and put your metabolism to work. Bonus points for adding a bit of natural, protein-packed peanut butter!
2. Lean Protein
Speaking of protein, let’s talk about another great fat melting food.
It takes a lot more effort for your body to digest protein than it does to digest carbohydrates and fats. In fact, protein-rich foods can boost your metabolism by 15%-30%!
Chicken, turkey, lean red meat, and fish all pack a powerful punch of protein. They’re also great for maintaining muscle mass as you age.
3. Chili Peppers
Hot peppers don’t just make you sweat — they’re a major jolt to your metabolic rate.
Capsaicin, the chemical that makes peppers “hot,” can help your body burn up to 50 extra calories per day.
That may not sound like much, but over time, that extra boost will really add up. So don’t be afraid to spice up your favorite meals with flavorful, fat burning peppers.
4. Coffee
Turns out that morning cup of coffee is good for more than just waking you up. Studies suggest that people who drink three cups of coffee each day may burn as much as 100 extra calories per day.
This is great news for coffee lovers, but caution is needed. If you’re fueling up on sugary, syrupy coffee drinks from Starbucks, you’re sabotaging your own weight loss efforts.
To benefit from coffee’s fat burning potential, skip the sugar and flavorings. Instead, drink it black or with a touch of low-fat milk.
5. Green Tea
Not a coffee fan? That’s okay. You can get similar benefits from sipping on green tea throughout the day.
Green tea contains a compound called EGCG, which is shown to have positive effects on metabolic and cardiovascular health. Plus, the caffeine in green tea can also give your metabolism a needed boost.
Like coffee, though, tea is only as healthy as what you put in it. Choose freshly brewed, unsweetened tea over the canned and sweetened kind.
6. Legumes and Pulses
You may know these better as chickpeas, lentils, and beans. And they’re proof that powerful things come in tiny packages.
Pulses and legumes are loaded with protein, which we’ve already listed as a metabolism booster. They’re also high in soluble fiber, which is terrific for your overall digestion.
Rather than pasta or rice, fuel up your metabolism with helpings of beans, lentils, and chickpeas. Your digestion — and your waistline — will thank you for it.
7. Spices
You know all those spice bottles collecting dust somewhere in your kitchen?
It’s time to dust them off and start using them, because spices are a major fat melting food. As thermogenic foods with fat burning properties, spices can help to melt (and keep) those pesky pounds off.
Which spices are best for weight loss? Try adding ginger, cayenne, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, or cinnamon to your favorite recipes.
If you’re not used to a lot of spice, start gradually. You can always add more heat as your body gets used to it.
8. Kimchi
Kimchi originates in Korea. This spicy and sour dish of fermented cabbage may take a little getting used to, but the results are worth it.
Like other fermented foods, kimchi is rich in probiotics. This boosts the overall health of your gut, promotes good digestion, and results in less bloating.
In turn, a healthier gut will help your metabolism work more efficiently. Studies also suggest that kimchi can improve cholesterol and carbohydrate metabolism in overweight people.
9. Whole Eggs
Forget the egg whites and egg substitutes. Start your day and rev up your metabolism with delicious, protein-packed whole eggs.
They’re also high in Vitamin D, which helps to repair and rebuild your hard-working muscles. Remember: the more muscle mass you have, the easier it is for your body to burn calories!
Skip the greasy pan and try them boiled or poached instead. Your body will thank you for it.
10. Avocados
If there’s a perfect breakfast food, avocados might be it.
You want to break your fast with foods that have healthy fats, like the omega-3s found in avocado. These get your metabolism running without spiking your blood sugar levels.
This is critical for weight loss, since it prevents energy crashes and sugar cravings. Avocados will keep your hunger levels at bay while giving your metabolism that all-important boost.
Final Thoughts on Fat Melting Food
If you’ve been struggling to lose weight, don’t despair.
By adding this powerful fat melting food to your diet, you’ll rev your metabolism into higher gear.
For some of us, though, changes in diet simply aren’t enough. A doctor-supervised weight loss program could be the key you need to unlock the door to success.
Are you ready to get started on the path to a healthier you? Click here to find a ChiroThin doctor in your area.