Tips to Speed Up Metabolism

A slow metabolism leads to weight gain and makes it very hard to lose weight. Although you are born with a certain metabolism, and metabolism typically slows with age, there are a few tips to follow that will speed up your metabolism.

B Vitamins

• B vitamins create energy, which speeds metabolism and increases weight loss. Foods high in B vitamins include asparagus, broccoli, spinach and nearly all energy drinks. Try to eat foods high in B vitamins throughout the day to keep energy levels high, thereby speeding up metabolism. Eat four to five servings each day.

Magnesium

• Foods that are rich in magnesium are another proven ingredient in speeding up metabolism. Eat oatmeal for breakfast, or snack on almonds or cashews throughout the day. Other magnesium-rich foods are halibut, soybeans and spinach. Incorporate three to four servings of magnesium into your diet each day.

Limit Snacks

• Snacks are needed throughout the day for extra fuel between meals. An average snack portion should be about the size of a handful. Do not eat when you are not hungry, and do not eat junk food for snacks, as this will slow the metabolism. Snack on nuts and dried fruit, or fresh fruit or vegetables with a fruit or veggie dip.

Eat Breakfast

• A healthful breakfast each morning will give the metabolism a boost and keep it moving throughout the day. Eat a breakfast that could include peanut butter on whole-grain toast, a bowl of oatmeal or a high-fiber cereal with soy milk.

Exercise

• Exercise is an important factor in a speedy metabolism. Strength training and cardiovascular exercise will boost to the metabolism and keep it working throughout the day. Fit in at least 10 to 15 minutes of exercise each day, even if you are only able to do it in five-minute intervals. The key is to get the metabolism to a fast rate, which will burn more fat over a longer period of time.