We all have that friend who goes with us to lunch, orders a huge burger, and says, “I guess I just have a fast metabolism, I never gain a pound!” All while you look into your bowl of salad. While some reports say that we are born with a high or low metabolic rate, this theory is unproven to date. The fact is, there are many genetic factors that affect our health, as well as ways that our everyday actions can impact it too. That latter point, of course, includes, what we eat. Altering your food habits is key to how to increase your metabolism rate, along with other tips below that are easy to follow.
Oh sugar
Before I talk about the different ways to increase metabolism rate, there is one culprit to pull out of the shadows and deal with. Sugar. Even if you cut back on sugar, you likely still crave it. Or, you cut back on sugar, not realizing the additives in your fancy coffee just sent your blood sugar through the roof.
When you consume too much sugar, your body turns it into immediate fuel. Then you get that rush and, for a little while, your brain pumps some feel-good chemicals and, for a little while, you’re rocking it! Then the body runs out of that sugar fuel and your energy level drastically drops. That’s when you feel sick, jittery, tired and, most of all, you crave more sugar. And the brain fights pretty hard, so escape takes effort. Make no mistake about it, when your brain wants something it is insistent. Your body acts the same way when you give up any unhealthy habit too.
Furthermore, it’s that daily rise and fall in sugar levels that paralyzes your metabolism. If you need help with the battle, check out 5 proven ways to stop sugar cravings.
Below are some healthy tips to speed your metabolic rate for good health.
How to increase metabolism rate:
1. Drink 8-ounces of water as soon as you wake up
During the night, your body has used your stored water to keep your organs operating well. That water is critical to how your body functions. Then, when you wake up, top off the water levels in your body by drinking an 8-ounce cup of clear liquid immediately.
Throughout the day, aim to consume eight 8-ounces of water to get your metabolic rate up and rehydrate your body. If you’re not sure how much 8 ounces is, it’s a cup or 250 milliliters.
2. Eat!
Do not let your body get to the hunger stage. Growling stomachs are a sign that the body needs attention.
Therefore, instead of eating 3 times a day, eat smaller portions, 5 times per day. The goal is to keep your body functioning with a steady flow of energy, food, and water.
3. Use essential oils to increase metabolism rate
Essential oils are very concentrated, easy to use, and have the potential to increase metabolism. Simply, put them in a diffuser with water to spray a mist into the air. Then, when you inhale, the essential oils in the air go through the thin nasal membranes.
Among the best essential oils to increase metabolism are:
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
- Ginger
- Peppermint
4. Mini-workouts
As you probably already know, exercise speeds up metabolism. But, you don’t have to live at the gym. Unless you’re like me and you find it a great way to break from work and relieve stress!
All you really need to do fitness-wise is 15-20 minutes at a time, rather than an hour of exercise at once. Aim to do so 4 times per week.
5. Change what you eat
Lastly, some foods increase the metabolism rate. Click here for a more detailed list. Here are a few examples:
- Blueberries
- Hot peppers
- Whole grains
- Broccoli
- Soup
- Green tea
- Apples
- Pears
While you will have to watch your calories, at least until your metabolism kicks in, these particular foods are among the ones to help you accomplish your goals.
Final thoughts on how to increase metabolism rate
In conclusion, you can make a health plan that fits easily with your lifestyle. And over time the results show in how you both look and feel. So, what’s holding you back? You can use one or more of the above ways how to increase metabolism rate, and there is no better time to start than today!*
Always check with your doctor before making a change to your lifestyle, for your safety.
Did you know that certain foods increase metabolism? Also, how do you deal with sugar cravings?
I start each day with a large glass of water and drink many more glasses of water throughout the day. The foods listed in #5 are good ones. I would add celery to the list as it costs more in energy to metabolize it than the calories in that particular food. I will have to check out the essential oils. This is an informative post, Christy!
Thanks for adding the about the potential benefits of celery on the metabolism, Peggy!
I love sports and can’t sit still for a long time. Since I work in an office 40 hours a week, I ordered a desk that allows me to work standing. Much better for my neck and back and increases metabolism as well. I like drinking green tea (good ‘fat killer’) and eating fruit and veggies as a basis for each meal.
Hi Jo, I’m thinking of getting a standing desk too – better for the back and overall body than sitting all day! Let me know how it goes for you with the desk :)
All great tips Christy. And I must say, the title is quite attention grabbing as most women (like myself) seem to be in search of the holy grail for metabolism. LOL :) xx
Oh yes the title has to be catchy ;) This post is a popular one – as you say a lot of women are on the lookout for ways to increase metabolism. Thanks for stopping by!
<3 Pleasure always.
xxoo
Thanks for these excellent tips. I need to increase my metabolism. And these suggestions are pretty doable. Thanks for sharing :)
They’re straightfoward strategies and I’m hoping at least one helps you, Shilpa. You’re doing great with the A-Z challenge, by the way :)
I definitely need to try these!
I hope they help you :)
I never knew that essential oils play a role to increase the metabolism rate. Thanks for sharing a wonderful post.
Yes, essential oils have many benefits!
Excellent post so much great information. Thank you!
You’re very kind, Diane :)
Thanks for this informative post.
Great to see you here.
I think yoga is also an effective way to increase metabolism
Yes, that’s true too! Thanks for adding that point :)
Ok your welcome
:)
Great tips!
Woohoo!
I truly needed to read this one for my metabolism.
Good timing then ((makes me happy to know it helps you))
Good advice, Christy. I do 1 and 2 and I walk up and down stairs all day at work. It works for me.
Stairs are awesome for the legs too. Go Robbie go! :)