4 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism Now

It's a new year and for many of us it's resolution time. While it's important to hit the gym, take up a new running program, or make other fitness resolutions, there are things you can incorporate into your daily eating regime that can help you knock off (and keep off) some extra pounds.

Certain foods can slow us down and make us groggy or tired. Sugar, refined carbohydrates, wheat (if you are gluten intolerant), and alcohol—these can have an impact on our metabolisms. Luckily, other foods and drinks can  naturally help to boost your metabolism.  Here are a few easy tips to pair with your workout program:

1. Eat small frequent meals. Eating every three to four hours and including a small protein snack will keep the fires of your metabolism stoked and burning.  I like to have an apple and some almonds in between meals or a small bit of protein powder with a half a banana. A bit of a hard cheese and a few carrots are also great snacks.

2. Cut your meal portions in half. If you eat two or three meals a day consider taking them to half the size you normally would. In thirty days you can train your stomach to want and be satisfied with less.

3. Add hot peppers like cayenne, jalapenos, and serrano to your diet to fire up your metabolic system. These ingredients will make your food a lot tastier, which will make you less likely to overeat because you're seeking out more flavor. Enhancing dishes with herbs and spices is a great way for you to get the most out of your meal with no added calories. If your portions are small you want to make sure that you are getting maximum flavor. A small tasty bite is a lot more enjoyable that mounds of food that lacks in taste and palate excitement.

4. Add small doses of caffeinated coffee or tea.  Remember to be moderate—overdoing certain stimulants like caffeine-laden energy drinks or coffee can burn out our adrenal glands. Green tea is unique in that it has the amino acid thiamine to balance out the caffeine and enhance your mood. Thiamine provides a relaxing and tranquilizing drinking experience. Keeping your cup filled with green tea throughout the day will keep you both happy and energized.

Mindful eating combined with the addition of portion control and a few changes in your diet will yield positive results. Make 2014 your best year yet!