We’ve all met at least one person in our lives who looked as thin as a supermodel despite eating for two or even three people. You’ve probably been envying that person ever since you first heard how they can eat as much as they want without ever packing extra weight, justifying that with a high metabolic rate. If you’ve thought immediately that they’re just trying to deceive you and make you jealous, while secretly spending hours at the gym to burn all the calories, you might need to think again. It’s actually true that some people were lucky enough to get faster metabolism than others, which is the main reason why they process food much faster and turn all the calories into energy instead of stored fat. Fortunately, you can do plenty to avoid packing extra weight and jumpstart your metabolism if you only know which foods to eat.
Snack healthy
If you’re constantly craving snacks, pretzels and other empty calorie snacks, opt for a combination of protein, fat and carbohydrates to avoid adding more pounds to your body. A combination of proteins, fat and carbs is a good choice, so think about having a cheese stick and a piece of fruit. Eating those together is the best way to avoid the dips and spikes that wreak havoc on metabolism because they will stabilize your blood sugar. Having two glasses of cold water before meals will make you eat less and make your body work double-time to stay warm.
Add high-fibre foods to your diet
If you’re gaining weight without eating too much food, and your first instinct is to cut down on food, even more, we advise you against it. Namely, skipping meals will only make your blood sugar drop which will only cause your body to burn muscle instead of fat. You’ll soon start craving carbs and the next thing you know the over-release of insulin happens and your body starts to store fat again. That’s why you should start eating high-fibre foods, low in calories such as fruits and vegetables. Fibres in fruits and veggies act like a natural colon-cleanser helping your digestive system run smoothly. Tuna and salmon and other fish rich in omega-3, 6, or 9 fatty acids will also benefit your metabolism. Omega oil supplements can be a good alternative to fish so if you’re for example from New Zealand you’re in luck because there are many health food stores where you can find it and not only jumpstart your metabolism, but make your hair, skin and bones stronger too. Lean dark cuts of protein such as beef, dark meat chicken or turkey are good choices as well.
Focus on good carbs’
Constant cravings for candy, ice cream, cookies, cake and other sweets means that your body needs carbs while making you crave sugar. What you need in this case is a low-fat, relatively low-protein diet that mixes good carbs, lots of fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. You’ll be focused around carb-based meals mainly, but you’ll also need whole grains such as barley, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread. Don’t forget to pack on low-purine proteins as well and go for light and lean white-meat poultry, white fish, such as cod or flounder, and plant-based proteins like lentils and chickpeas. Low-fat dairy such as cheese, yogurt and milk are another good choice for this type of metabolism.
Mix low- and full-fat foods
If you’re craving both salt and sugar, it means that you metabolize proteins, fats and carbs equally. That means that your body needs an equal amount of sugars, proteins and fats. A mixture of low- and full-fat foods such as low-fat cheese, yogurt, olive oil will be your best choice. Feel free to combine dark and light proteins such as light and dark meat poultry, soy, kidney beans, salmon, and beef. Don’t neglect the good carbs either and include various whole grains and healthy starchy vegetables into your diet. 100% whole-wheat bread and cereals, sweet potatoes, bananas will keep you full and prevent cravings.
Final thoughts
Having fast metabolism is one of the best ways to never have to deal with an excess of weight. However, if you were not blessed with a fast metabolism, you can, fortunately, do plenty about it and make sure you do not eat foods that you’re craving, but opt for healthier choices that your body actually needs. Make sure you follow the previously mentioned tips and you’ll without a doubt kickstart your metabolism.
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