Boosting Your Metabolism

We all want fast metabolism because it translates into a leaner body. Every time we eat, our bodies rely on the energy provided by the metabolism of the calories we consume. People with high metabolism burn more calories that those with low metabolism. But how does this work? The enzymes in our body's cells break down the food and turn it into that energy that also keeps our heart beating, our mind thinking, and our legs moving. The more calories we burn, the easier it is to lose those unwanted pounds. And guess what�there are tricks to making the metabolism work harder, all day and night, 24 hours a day.

The goal is to have the calories we eat match the calories we burn or they will turn into fat. Here are five tricks to boost the metabolism and get the body we always wanted.

Eat your breakfast within 30 minutes of waking up

You know that eating breakfast is important but don't wait too long before you eat. If you do, your body goes into starvation mode and slows down your metabolism to save the energy. What to eat? Egg white omelet with green veggies or a half cup of cooked steel-cut oatmeal with berries are your best bets.

Drink Coffee and Tea

Studies have shown that those who drink caffeinated coffee and tea have a higher metabolism that those who drink decaf. Caffeine is a stimulant and helps boost your energy and speed up metabolism. Stay away from caffeinated colas though, they work the opposite and fool your brain to make your crave salty and sweet things.

Work Out Less Intensity

Of course, intense exercise will burn calories and build lean mass, but it is the steady and consistent workouts that will ultimately speed up your metabolism. For best results, alternate intense exercise with continual moderate exercises.

Drink Your Water Cold

Researchers say that people who drink 8 to 12 glasses of water per day had higher metabolism than those who drank only 4 glasses. And make sure you drink your water cold. Your body has to work harder to heat that water to your core temperature.

Spice Up Your Meals

Not everyone likes it hot, but studies show that certain spicy foods can boost your metabolism. Try to use red peppers, cayenne, jalapenos, habaneros, and tabasco in your recipes. Another perk: the active ingredient, capsaicin, found in those foods, may also work to decrease appetite centers in your brain. And ginger is another special ingredient: it's great for your digestion but it also increases your body temperature and metabolic rates as much as 20 percent after eating.