When you need a little help, look to these natural remedies to stimulate your body’s fuel-burning capabilities.
Every day, the body’s metabolism works diligently to provide cells with the energy they need to function. In order to sustain our essential bodily functions, we require a minimum daily caloric intake—also known as the basal metabolic rate. Some people need a lot of nourishment to keep their internal engines going, even while at rest, while others have a very slow metabolism, which requires consuming fewer calories to perform essential functions.
Eating a balanced diet (with lots of protein), exercising regularly, hydrating properly, and getting enough sleep are all key to stimulating and maintaining a healthy metabolism, but here are some natural remedies for an extra fuel-burning nudge, if needed.
Coenzyme Q10
Our bodies naturally produce coenzyme Q10 (or coQ10), also known as ubiquinone, which is a powerful antioxidant. In addition to its role in combatting oxidative stress, supplementation with coenzyme Q10 has been shown to improve metabolic health and may be an effective treatment for metabolic disorders.
Vitamin C
Yes, the trusty cold fighter that is great for immune-system support may also enhance your metabolism by fighting off oxidative stress and inflammation. Although more research is needed to understand vitamin C’s role in metabolism, studies show that low vitamin C concentrations are associated with higher BMI. Supplementation with Vitamin C has also been shown to regulate glucose metabolism (decreasing blood sugar levels) and improve metabolic conditions. This glucose regulation is important for diabetics, for whom too much glucose in the bloodstream can damage organs, blood vessels, nerves, and more.
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA)
This powerful antioxidant is found in every cell and is rich in anthocyanins—the dark pigments found in fruits such as raspberries or blueberries. Not only does ALA fight off cell-damaging free radicals, but it also helps convert glucose into energy, reduce blood sugar levels, and appears to promote a healthy weight. In addition, it encourages the production of the protein hormone adiponectin, which can increase metabolic rate and energy expenditure.
Green tea
Frequently lauded for its health benefits, green tea contains catechins, natural antioxidants that can thwart oxidative stress. One type of catechin in particular, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), has been shown to increase fat oxidation, an important component of metabolism. Add this to green tea’s caffeine content, which is lower than coffee, but still significant, and green tea is at the ready to jump-start your metabolism.
Spice up your life
Certain foods are known to stimulate metabolism. In the case of chili peppers, or hot peppers, this is thanks to capsaicin—the main bioactive compound in chilis, which gives them their heat. Capsaicin has also been studied for its ability to boost metabolic rate, and has been shown to modestly enhance energy expenditure, boost fat oxidation, and diminish appetite.
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