Easy Switch Outs to Boost Your Metabolism

Synopsis: This article goes over several easy actions or replacements that can be made to help boost your metabolism.

Boosting your metabolism is a critical part of losing weight and reaping the benefits of a healthier body and lifestyle.  While there's no question that high intensity workouts might be the absolute best thing for kicking the metabolism up into high gear, there are many small and easy actions that can be taken in order to get you closer to your weight loss goals.  Many small things can add up when it comes to challenging your metabolic process, so if you’re looking to tilt the scales in your favor, consider some of these easy switch outs to common habits that will help boost your metabolism.

#1: Water instead of diet soda.  Getting off soda can be very difficult, and while diet soda might be the damage control version of regular soda, water is much better.  Not only is it zero calories, but studies have shown that ice water can boost the metabolism by itself, and being hydrated helps make sure all your organs are functioning at their peak efficiency.

#2: Read instead of watch TV.  If you're a reader, just remember that sitting on a couch and staring at the boob tube has been shown to cut metabolism by up to 30% more than someone who sits on a couch and reads.  So even if you're feeling done for the day, curl up and read a book or magazine instead of watching TV.

#3: Protein for carbs.  Whether it's cooking a chicken breast or broiling a sausage for breakfast instead of taking the doughnut, or taking tuna and spinach over white rice and tuna, concentrate on eating more protein and less simple carbs (also called "white" carbs).

#4: Walk instead of drive.  If it's an errand within easy walking distance, or something that can be done only a few blocks away, take a walk and enjoy the nice day.  Stretch the legs, say hello to a neighbor, and simply enjoy getting out of the house or apartment for a little while.

#5: Eat more early, not late.  Ideally, you should eat the biggest meals in the morning and the lightest meal of the day should be your last one.  Eating a lot late in the day can really overwhelm your digestive system and your metabolism.

Those five simple switch outs can go a long way towards boosting your metabolism and helping you to achieve all of your weight management goals.