Boost Your Metabolism: How Food Impacts Fat Burning

When fat is metabolized, it is broken down into simpler compounds that can be processed by the body. The speed at which this occurs is called your metabolism--a word with quite a poor reputation. Usually associated with being too slow, metabolism controls the rate at which you are able to lose weight. Although your metabolism is partially genetic, you can speed it up significantly through what you eat and how often. Take control of your fat-burning mechanism with some simple eating habits and key foods that will metabolize fat fast.

Instructions

• 1

  Eat often. Consume 6 small meals throughout the day to keep your metabolism active. This will allow your body to burn fat at a consistent rate.

• 2

  Include omega 3's in your diet. Foods such as salmon, flax seeds, walnuts and canola oil are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Don't let the name deceive you; these fats are a necessary part of your diet.

• 3

  Drink green tea. Switch your morning coffee for a green tea, and notice the immediate benefits. This beverage contains EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which increases the amount of calories burned throughout the day.

• 4

  Eat fiber-rich foods. Oatmeal, whole grains and legumes are great sources of fiber. These foods break down slowly, which keeps your metabolism firing away. Fiber also leaves you feeling fuller for longer.

• 5

  Spice it up. Add jalepenos, cayenne and habaneros to your cooking to kick up the fat-burning process. These flavorful additions will heat up your body temperature (and your metabolism) as your body works to cool itself.