
America consumes too many calories. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one-third of U.S. adults are overweight and 42 percent are obese. While several factors can contribute to weight gain, an unbalanced diet is one of the most important. However, making small changes to your diet can make a big difference—certain foods can help rev up your metabolism so you burn more calories throughout the day.
If you’re looking for an easy and natural way to boost your metabolism and lose those unwanted pounds, keep reading.
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Salmon is a fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats have been linked to a variety of health benefits, including weight loss. Additionally, a 2021 meta-analysis found that omega-3 fatty acids may increase resting metabolic rate due to their role in fat metabolism in the body. Salmon is also a good source of protein that can help you feel full and satisfied, potentially reducing your overall calorie intake.
“Fatty fish like salmon can support your metabolism with its high amounts of protein and omega-3 fatty acids,” says Kelsey KunickRDN, Registered Dietitian and Nutritional Consultant for Zenmaster Wellness.
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Adding some heat to your meals with hot sauce may help you burn more calories. “The main ingredient in hot sauce and hot peppers is capsaicin, a compound that gives a slight metabolism boost and burns more calories,” Kunik explains.
Capsaicin has been shown to increase metabolism and stimulate the body to burn more fat.A 2022 study published in drug It was concluded that not only does capsaicin boost metabolism, it also helps suppress appetite in the short term, restore healthy gut bacteria, and promote healthy weight management.

It’s no secret that many of us rely on coffee for energy every day. But did you know it can also help you burn more calories? That’s because caffeine is a natural stimulant that boosts metabolism and helps burn energy more efficiently. “Drinking at least one cup of strong coffee a day, or an equivalent amount of caffeine, can increase the amount of fat you burn during exercise,” says Kunik.
A 2021 study had a group of people unaccustomed to consuming more than 50 milligrams of caffeine per day (about half a cup of coffee) consume the equivalent of a cup of espresso before endurance exercise. Comparing the results with exercise and a placebo, the researchers found that caffeine increased the amount of fat burned during exercise.
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Ginger is a root that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Plus, it’s been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can also help you burn more calories.According to a study published in the journal metabolismcompared with participants who did not eat ginger, those who ate ginger burned more calories and oxidized more fat.
“Eating ginger with a meal or drinking ginger tea can increase the energy needed to digest food and help increase feelings of fullness. Ginger has a warming effect similar to hot sauce, but with less spiciness, which some people tolerate Better guy,” Kunick said.
Best Life provides the latest information from top experts, new research and health agencies, but our content is not a substitute for professional guidance. If you have specific health questions or concerns, please always consult your healthcare provider directly.