The Top 10 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism

Want to get summer ready? Losing weight and burning fat is never easy. To help you shift those extra pounds, we have asked our expert nutritionists to list the top 10 ways to boost your metabolism…

1. Eat protein with every meal

Because muscle has a big effect on metabolism, you can improve your metabolism by increasing your lean muscle mass and keeping your body fat down. Eating plenty of protein (in conjunction with exercise) will help maintain and build your muscle strength. “This is especially important if you’re cutting calories, because your body may start breaking down your muscle tissue for energy – eating more protein can help protect against this,” explains Nutritionist and Fitness Instructor, Cassandra Barns.

2. Say hello to apple cider vinegar

“My clients have had great results with apple cider vinegar. Add a couple of tablespoons to a glass of warm water and drink it on an empty stomach about 30 minutes before your dinner. This will not only boost your metabolism but it will help to curb your appetite. It’s also a great addition to salad dressings, too!” suggests Nutritionist and Weight Loss Coach, Pippa Campbell.

3. Eat more salmon

Essential fatty acids, which are found in oily fish such as Salmon, help to boost your metabolism.“The essential fats are important for your health in general, but they also slow down the rate at which the stomach empties, making carbohydrates even more slow-releasing. They can make you feel fuller for longer and also control hunger,” explains Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading Nutritionist, author of The Natural Health Bible for Women.

4. Embrace HIIT

Have you tried HIIT before? High Intensity Interval Training is a time efficient method of exercise that can boost your metabolism. HIIT causes you to consume more oxygen and make your cells powerhouses; the mitochondria work harder to burn energy, preserving muscle tone in the process.

5. Snack on almonds

Almonds are high in essential nutrients, especially minerals and vitamins. They are also full of nourishing healthy fats as well as being high in protein.Fat and protein make you feel fuller for longer, which should encourage you to snack less. They also help to balance your blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which is an essential part of healthy weight loss and management,” explains Glenville.

6. Find your food intolerances

Find what food groups work for your body by delving deeper into your DNA. Pippa runs a three-month Metabolic Balance programme that is 100% personalised and actively supports a person’s own biochemistry and nutritional needs. To begin a blood sample is taken from the client, which is then analysed by medical experts, so that a customised and unique plan can be prepared.

7. Drink a glass of hot water and Lemon

Making the switch from your morning latte to a cup of hot water and lemon can help to activate your digestive system for the day ahead. Alix Woods, nutritionist at Quest Nutra Pharma explains, “I switch to a healthier morning habit of having a mug of warm water and lemon. Lemons are alkalising and water is detoxifying, which is essential to hydrate all our cells. The lemons mixed with the warm temperature of the water act as a digestive aid and helps the body to eliminate toxins.”

8. Lend your gut a helping hand

“Digestion – including transit time through the gut – can be affected by the bacteria that live there. So, a good-quality probiotic supplement could help move things along and improve digestive comfort,” explains Cassandra. Taking a probiotic supplement can help re-balance the good bacteria in your gut, support digestion and reduce symptoms of intolerance. “Try GI Natural by Natures Plus (£16, www.naturesplus.co.uk), to help improve your digestive health,” adds Cassandra.

9. 24-hour fasting once a month

Yes, you read this correctly! 24-hour fasting actually sends your body into a sort of ‘shock’ mode to burn more fat, as it is searching for other sources of energy. Don’t overdo it – but fasting once a month can really kick-start your metabolism.

10. Up your magnesium intake

A magnesium supplement may be beneficial for long-term support for your metabolism, especially if you lead a stressful lifestyle or have trouble sleeping. “Magnesium is vital for energy metabolism and may be especially supportive for relaxation and sleep, too. Many of us don’t get enough of it in our diets. I’d suggest taking Natures Plus KalmAssure Magnesium Powder in the evening or before bed (£24.50, www.naturesplus.co.uk),” suggests Cassandra.

Amy Smith

With a degree in English Literature from the University of Cambridge, Amy is a freelance writer and columnist. At YCB Magazine, she writes about all things lifestyle, travel & wellness.