Benefits of a High Metabolism
People with a fast metabolism have more energy available throughout the day. This makes it easier to stay active and maintain a healthy weight.
How much energy you need is largely determined by a few things. Your body size and composition, age, and genetics all play a role.
Besides that, your body also needs energy to burn fat. It does this by metabolizing food and drinks you eat, which then mix with oxygen to make energy for the body.
Eating foods can temporarily increase your metabolism, especially protein and some complex carbohydrate-rich foods. This is called the thermic effect of food, or TEF.
A good way to stimulate your TEF is to eat small meals and snacks frequently throughout the day. You can do this by consuming lean protein and complex carbohydrates. Examples include apple wedges dipped in peanut butter, a cup of raw vegetables dipped in nonfat Greek yogurt or hummus, and black beans with a light salad dressing.
Exercise can also help boost your metabolism. Regular cardiovascular exercises like walking, jogging, biking and dancing burn calories and promote muscle growth that boosts your metabolic rate.
Adding more fiber to your diet can also help you metabolize food more quickly, which will help you feel fuller faster. Increasing your intake of fruits and veggies, as well as nuts and seeds, will also help.
If you are concerned about your metabolism, talk to a doctor. They can assess your health and recommend a plan to improve it.