At some point of time in our life, we all have try to increase the metabolism of the body and lose weight. With each passing day being overweight and obese is becoming part of most of our lives. It is becoming insurmountable even if we are following various diets and therapies. Some colon cleansing programs along with typical dieting are of no use. Even if some amount of weight is lost by following some old school methods, gained back within a few weeks of stopping those things.
Slow metabolism is one of the main reason for weight gain. According to Ayurveda reason behind slow metabolism is low digestive fire or "Agni" of the body. This Agni digests the food that we consume and it prevents the formation of 'Ama' in the body, which is the cause of many diseases. If this digestive fire is slowed down due to some reasons than fat or fatty tissue (Medo dhatu) starts to accumulate making one obese or overweight. Slow metabolism not only causes obesity but also brings many other health ailments along with it.
So we have come up with few dietary tips which will illuminate and enhance the digestive fire (Agni), ultimately boosting up the metabolism.
1. Eat Sufficiently
It is very popularly said that if you want to weigh less, eat less. It is completely a myth. Taking insufficient food will result in use up of muscle mass, eventually decreasing metabolism. Under-eating is as risky as overeating. Don’t screw up your metabolism with just cutting up the calories instead follow the simple diet and eat sufficiently.
2. Green Tea
It is a major metabolism booster. As green tea consists of a large number of antioxidants which facilitates the release of fats from the fat cells and the liver turns this fat into energy. So go for green tea instead of coffee.
3. Olive Oil
Use of olive oil increases the level of hormone which helps in satiety, i.e. serotonin. It also consists of antioxidants which removes the free radicals from the body and helps the body to fight against various diseases and also prevents health ailments like osteoporosis and cancer.
4. Milk
Drink full-fat milk as it helps in the metabolism of fat more effectively. Some studies suggest that intake of milk provides natural calcium to the body which aids elimination of stick around fat in the body through stool more efficiently.
5. Whole Grains
Digestion of whole grains require more energy than processed and refined grains. Go for the foods that make your body work harder for digestion, hence increasing the metabolism ultimately. Choose food rich in fiber like oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, and sprouted grains.
6. Garlic
It is a very common ingredient which can be found in the kitchen easily. Garlic is known to possess many health benefits like anti-inflammatory properties and also lowers the blood sugar level. Antioxidant content of it helps to fight against various diseases.
7. Apple
An apple a day not only keeps a doctor away but may also help you to increase your metabolism too. It helps to prevent various diseases like cardiovascular diseases, abdominal disorders and reduces the visceral fat.
8. Stop Soda And Sugary Drinks
These soda and sugary drinks give the body a high amount of calories and trigger the storage of fats. These drinks can be a major hindrance in the goal.
9. Chocolate
Surprisingly, chocolates decrease the level of stress hormones and helps to keep metabolism in control. Stress slows down the metabolism and decreases the fat-burning engines capacity, consumption of chocolate has the potency to balances it all. It is the most delicious way to increase your metabolism.
10. Lentils
These are the major source of iron. If the body’s demand for iron is not fulfilled then it may result in many deficiencies and disorders which hinders the goal of achieving a fast metabolism. Lentils also decrease the bad cholesterol and blood pressure of your body.
11. Nuts
Low-calorie diet, rich in nuts like almonds and others can help you to increase metabolism and decrease the weight. Eating nuts make you feel full for a long time and decrease the chances of overeating too.
12. Yogurt
It consists of probiotics which help the body to get good bacteria that helps in digestion. Yogurt also consists of calcium and proteins and is low in calories.
13. Avocado
It consists of monosaturated fats which enhance the metabolism of the body. Avocados are rich in fiber and antioxidants which help to eliminate free radicals from the body that is responsible for many harmful effects on the body. If seen more closely this amazing fruit helps to increase and aid the working of mitochondria in the cells which ultimately increases the metabolism.
14. Beans
They are the great source of protein which is also packed with insoluble and soluble fiber. Body consumes extra calories in process of digesting these fibers and proteins which increases the metabolism and helps you to lose weight. It also improves digestion.
15. Broccoli
This green vegetable consists of an ample amount of vitamin C and calcium which helps to boost the metabolism. A compound present in broccoli prevents cancer by switching off certain cancerous genes and also kills the cancer cells decreasing the progression of the disease.
16. Pepper
Studies have suggested that including pepper in your diet boosts the metabolism and helps in losing weight. But beware! Add only to a limited amount as it can cause many health problems if used too much.
17. Coffee
It increases the metabolism and hence helps in losing weight too. Before the workout, a cup of coffee is not a bad choice as it also stimulates the body to workout harder. Coffee is full of caffeine which suppresses the appetite and prevents over-eating.
18. Mustard
It boosts up the metabolism and also it is full of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which prevent various health ailments.
19. Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar increases the metabolism, lowers weight, BMI (Body mass index), visceral fat and ultimately helps to maintain a healthy weight.
20. Water
Drink more water as it increases the rate of burning calories in the body. Water not only helps in losing weight but also helps to maintain a healthy body.
