The fastest way to change the way you feel is to change the way you eat. Our metabolism is like the fat-burning motor. The body tries to convert everything we eat into fuel; some foods just deliver better results than others. High-quality foods actually burn fat and keep the body running at optimal levels. Low quality foods deliver low quality performance. So eat these "fast foods.” They power up the metabolism, boost energy levels and burn more fat even while you’re resting.
Low-Fat Dairy Products
Calcium is a metabolic trigger. Skim milk and yogurt are rich in complex carbohydrates, which boost your metabolism by keeping insulin levels low after a meal. High insulin levels signal the body to hold onto fat. A study of dieters done at the University of Tennessee found that those who ate 1200 mg of calcium a day lost twice as much weight than those who avoided dairy.
Hot Peppers
Capsaicin, the chemical in jalapenos, habaneros, and cayenne peppers gives them their bite. It speeds up heart rate and boosts metabolism. A study reported by AOL Health found that eating just one spicy meal a day boosts metabolism by up to 25%, and the calorie burn lasts for up to three hours after the meal.
Green Vegetables
They’re a dieter’s salvation because they’re high in fiber and low in calories. In addition to their numerous health benefits, their slimming powers come from the fact that the more you eat at a meal the less room you’ll have to eat other foods that might not be so wonderful. Asparagus is especially good because it’s a natural diuretic that flushes out the system and minimizes water retention. Studies are also showing that it may play a role in fat breakdown.
Good Fats
Olive oil and avocados are great sources of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. The oleic acid in olive oil stabilizes leptin (also called the satiety hormones). Avocados are also a great source of fiber.
Berries
Blueberries contain more antioxidants than any other fruit. Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and grapes are also good. Aside from their many other proven health boosting claims, a cup of fresh or frozen berries contains about 6 grams of filling fiber.
Nuts
Almost all nuts qualify: almonds, walnuts, pistachios, etc. contain protein, fiber, and “healthy fat” that helps keep you feeling full. Snacking on 24 almonds will keep you feeling far more satisfied than snacking on the same number of rice cakes. Nut butters count, but buy ones that don’t have added sugar. Peanut butter is particularly good because it’s high in Niacin, which prevents bloat.
Tea (Hot Or Iced)
In a Swiss study, tea drinkers burned 266 more calories per day than non-tea drinkers. Green tea is the best; it has a chemical called EGCG that causes the brain and nervous system to run faster, which burns more calories even while the body is at rest. Black and white teas are also good. Avoid heavily processed bottled and canned tea drinks and brew it yourself.
Coffee (Caffeinated)
Caffeine speeds up your heart rate and helps burn more calories. Even though the caffeine in the Mocha Frappuccino counts, it’s full of sugar and fat. It’s best to get your caffeine with low fat milk and go easy on sweeteners. It’s been shown that taking caffeine before a workout helps you last longer and consume more oxygen during the workout. The more oxygen you use, the more calories you burn.
Whole Grains
These are a great source of complex carbohydrates and fiber. Look for “whole grain” or “whole wheat” products. If the label says “wheat,” there’s a good chance the processing has stripped of its fiber and nutrients.
Grapefruit
It’s been praised as a diet aid for years. Grapefruit is high in pectin, which breaks down body fat. WARNING: Grapefruit can interfere with many medications, especially blood pressure meds. Check with your doctor, pharmacist, or the Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide updates.
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Ten Best Fat-Burning Foods | ThirdAge
Ten Best Fat-Burning Foods
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