Before we get into the 10 foods that speed metabolism, let's take a brief look at metabolism and how it works. It will help if we can first understand the process, what affect it has on our bodies, and why particular foods are central to weight loss and fighting fat.

All Foods Speed Metabolism?

Basically, metabolism is the process of turning food into energy, either to be used by the body right away, or stored as fat to be used later. When we consume food, digestion occurs and draws out the nutrients from the food and uses them to create the energy that keeps our bodies functioning correctly and efficiently. This process is repeated each time that we consume food, and takes 4 hours or so to complete.

In short, during the digestive process, our bodies burn calories. Simply by eating, digesting and absorbing nutrients from the food, we fuel our metabolism. Certain foods, especially if they contain a high percentage of carbohydrates or protein, will take longer than other foods to digest.

Should You Eat More to Stimulate Calorie Burning?

This may be hard to believe--yes!. But not quite how you think. In this case, eating more means eating more often. It's possible to keep your body in a constant state of buring calories by eating smaller meals, but eating often throughout the day. On the other hand, skipping breakfast or other meals will negatively affect the rate at which your body burns calories. Aim for 5-6 small meals per day, and never go in excess of 3 hours at a time without eating, for optimum results.

As referred to previously, carbohydrates and proteins trigger the maximum rate of metabolism. In truth, as much as 25% of the calories of a protein-rich meal can be burned through digestion and absorbtion. But you'll need to add non-starchy vegetables, healthy fats, and carbs to the protein to achieve the well-balanced nutrition necessary for healthy weight loss . This can minimize body fat creation, while at the same time keeping your blood sugar at a level that helps to burn fat and build muscle.

Caffeine-loaded energy drinks, sodas, coffee, tea, chocolate, and capsaicin (the compound found in hot peppers) minimally and briefly speed metabolism, but are not always good choices nutritionally, due to high sugar content or calorie counts.

10 Foods That Speed Metabolism

Target these 10 particular foods that can help speed metabolism and burn fat:

Whole grain breads

Lean chicken

Salmon

Eggs

Fresh Cheese

Green Beans

Summer Squash

Cabbage

Asparagus

Lean, protein rich red meat

You can drink cold water to temporarily boost your metabolism as much as 30%. Try it, it works!

Metabolic rate can be affected by many other factors, including age, sex, weight, and any medical conditions. While these 10 foods can speed metabolism, remember that the proven way to lose weight is with a healthy combination of regular meals and physical exercise, particularly exercise that builds lean muscle mass.

Since everyone is different, for best results, you should consult a nutritionist and a fitness trainer for advice that will target your specific needs and goals.