If you feel like you’re doing everything right but still struggling to lose weight, your metabolism could be to blame. While many aspects of your health can play a role in metabolism (including genetics, activity level, and more) the foods we eat can also impact how efficiently our body burns calories. In fact, there are a few types of foods that experts recommend limiting your intake of as much as possible if a faster metabolism is your goal.
To discover some of the worst options out there, we asked registered dietitian and nutritionist Krutika Nanavati. She told us that processed foods, fried foods, and foods rich in trans fats can all be detrimental to your metabolism over time. Find all of her expert insight below!
1. Processed or refined carbohydrates
Some of the tastiest foods out there, from bagels to pasta, are made from refined carbohydrates. Unfortunately, Nanavati tells us that regularly eating these foods like this can take a serious toll on your health—including your metabolism—over time.
"Processed and refined carbohydrates such as white bread, white rice, and pasta can cause a spike in blood sugar levels which can slow down the metabolism," she warns, explaining that "these are quickly broken down in the digestive system, leading to an influx of sugar that causes weight gain around the midsection." Say it ain't so!
You can learn more about the health risks of refined carb consumption here.
2. Fried foods
It probably doesn't come as a surprised to learn that fried foods (like French fries, which have also been linked to depression and anxiety) aren't the best choice for your overall health. However, Nanavati stresses that you should be especially careful of consuming this variety of food if you want to maintain a healthy metabolism.
"Fried foods are high in saturated fat and she be avoided," she says. These fats are difficult to digest, and ultimately, what our bodies can't break down will be stored as fat.
Luckily, many of the fried foods you love can taste just as good if they're baked, grilled, or air fried. Your body will thank you for making these swaps in the long run!
3. Trans fats
Speaking of metabolism-slowing fats, trans fats are right there at the top of the list. "Trans fats found in margarine and some processed snacks should be avoided as they are linked to a variety of health problems including obesity and metabolism syndrome," Nanavati explains. (Read more about the risks of margarine here.)
These unsaturated fats, which have been chemically altered, are typically added to processed foods in order to lengthen their shelf life and improve their texture. Unfortunately, they're not good for your body and can interfere with your metabolic processes, impairing your body's ability to burn calories and fat efficiently. On top of their role in slowing metabolism, trans fats are also linked to inflammation, insulin resistance, and more.
If you're looking for a healthy snack that won't cause these complications, you can choose healthy fats like nuts and seeds, instead. Here's one of the best options out there!
The bottom line
Ultimately, there are several factors that can impact metabolism, including genetics, age, and activity level. However, your diet can play a significant role, and certain foods like these should be avoided as much as possible if you want to maintain a fast metabolic rate. By cutting out these foods and instead choosing nutrient-dense, high-fiber foods like these, along with regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle, we can support a healthy metabolism and maintain a healthy weight.
