thrive on food. When you fast or crash diet, your metabolism will slow
down in order to conserve energy. Imagine your metabolism as a blazing
fire. If the fire burns consistently with the appropriate amount of
high-quality wood, it will burn at a steady rate. But if it doesn’t
have enough wood, the fire goes out. If it has too much wood, it can
get out control — just like your waistline!
Eat every four to five hours. Our bodies work hard to digest and
absorb the foods we eat, and your metabolism revs up in response.
This is called the thermic effect of food. Take full advantage of this
and schedule meals and snacks every four to five hours.
Make breakfast a priority. Studies show that people who regularly eat
a healthy breakfast within two hours of rising are more likely to
control their weight. This may be because you’re lifting your
metabolic rate after it’s been in a “resting phase” during the night.
Eat protein with every meal: All foods create a thermic effect and
will slightly boost your metabolism. However, eating protein gives
your body a bigger metabolic boost than eating carbohydrates or fats.
Plus, eating enough protein will ensure you’ll maintain and build
muscle mass. (Remember, the more muscle mass you have, the greater
your metabolic rate). Make sure to incorporate lean protein into most
every meal.
Best protein sources: fish, chicken breast, turkey breast, lean red
meat, skim milk, nonfat yogurt, eggs and egg substitutes, tofu, beans,
and lentils.
