4 surprising foods to boost metabolism

Natural foods can boost metabolism
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Has that turkey dinner left you feeling a little sluggish? While no one can cure weight loss by wishing the pounds away (darn it!), A person can consume certain foods to bring a little bit of life back into that post-holiday gorge. Natural foods can fire up your internal powerhouse and help you shed some fat.

1. Cayenne pepper

In April 2011, a study was conducted in Los Angeles, CA, with partial support from The National Institutes of Health and the McCormick Spice Company.

You can find cayenne peppers at your local grocery store.
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Those who participated were instructed to consume a half teaspoon of cayenne pepper mixed in their food. The study found that participants who ate the pepper with their food burned 10 more calories than those who did not eat it.

Researchers also said participants noted appetite suppression.

So, the goal for a dieter would be a half teaspoon of cayenne pepper with each meal, ideally.

2.  Omega 3

Prominent in fish (oil), nuts, avocados and flax seed, this fatty acid crushes the green tea trend.

An app that lists Omega 3 foods.
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Thus far, it has been scientifically proven to be one of the  most effective ways to increase metabolism. As demonstrated in numerous studies from University of Kansas Medical Center, The National Institute of Health and Women’s Health Magazine, Omega 3 sends a message to the the brain when it’s full, suppressing the cycle of overeating.

Additionally, consuming this fatty acid on a regular basis can initiate a fat-burning hormone to secrete (Leptin), making skinniness a promising part of your future.

3. Dark Chocolate

This does not mean you can go pigging out on dark chocolate all day, but it does have benefits when consumed in moderation.

In 2009, a study was published in the Journal of Proteome Research. It concluded that when participants consumed “about an ounce and a half” of dark chocolate daily in the span of two weeks, they showed decreased levels of Cortisol (or the stress hormone)  in the volunteers feeling “highly stressed.”

Enjoy at least an ounce daily to have the benefits of these participants.

4. Baked Potato.

According to a NutraLegacy.com article, these spuds are high in vitamins responsible in kickstarting metabolism, i.e. zinc, potassium and magnesium.

Plus, potatoes are high in fiber, so you consume less additional food after eating them.

So head to your nearest grocery store and pick up these items if you are trying to get rid of some holiday bulge. Or, to prevent it from creeping up on you when you least expect it.