How to Increase Your Metabolism

Here are some easy ways to increase your metabolism and jump-start your energy and weight loss efforts. You'll be ready for the beach this summer for sure!!!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Drink Green Tea and Coffee.
   
   The caffeine in coffee and teas, like green tea, can boost your metabolism by up to 12%. So go ahead and enjoy your morning brew, and don't feel guilty about it.

2. Eat Coconut Oil.
   
   Coconut oil is all the rage, and for good reason. Eat 1/2 teaspoon in the morning and evening for extra energy and a metabolism boost. Coconut oil is a natural remedy for hypothyroidism. Researchers say it is metabolized quickly by the liver and not stored as fat, providing the energy boost, and stimulating the thyroid to produce more readily.

3. Exercise.
   
   Cardiovascular as well as muscle toning exercise is essential for a healthy metabolism. Try a walking and pilates program to get you started, and you'll raise your metabolism in no time.

4. Get The Right Nutrition.
   
   In order to burn the most fat, your body needs plenty of iron. If you become anemic, not only will you lose energy, but your metabolism will sink. Vitamin D is important for metabolism too. Go for a walk in the sunshine to tackle two birds with one stone. Also, make sure you're getting enough calcium, because calcium helps to inhibit fat absorption. Finally, eat plenty of protein, which is important for building lean muscle.

5. Eat at least 1200 calories a day.
   
   Metabolism screeches to a halt when you consume less than 1200 calories a day. Your body thinks it's being starved and begins to conserve every ounce of energy. Eat 6 small meals to keep your metabolism going and to keep hunger at bay too.

6. Drink Enough Water.
   
   Dehydration causes fatigue, so be sure to drink at least 8 glasses each day. You need water for your body to burn fat. Without water, your kidneys do not work efficiently and your liver must take on some of the work. Your liver can't burn as much fat as it should, so much of the fat that should be metabolized for energy, will be stored as fat. The more water you drink, the more efficient the liver will become at burning fat.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch your calories and portion sizes.
• Check with your doctor to determine the best weight program for you.

[nicksimpsoncer]

on 10/5/2009 Great article,

Last month I started one weight loss program - amazing results.I lost 30 lbs in just a month.
That is 100% naturally.NO pills.I think to share it here.

Here is the link:

NewGenerationDiet.Tk

[sherbert]

on 4/6/2009 Great article on how to increase your metabolism! I love to eat spicy foods like jalapenos and pepperocinis! :) 5*

[ReuseItAll]

on 4/2/2009 I love your advice! I'm forwarding this to some girlfriends as well. I recently discovered coconut oil and love it!! Thanks!

[ManyMusings]

on 3/31/2009 Interesting information. Thanks.

[smgwritings]

on 3/23/2009 I love to drink green tea, so I'm on the right track. Thanks for the insight!