13 Super Brain Foods - by Nature's Sunshine
Tumeric
That spice that's in almost every curry -- that's turmeric. It has been reported to increase metabolism by increasing bile production within the body, as well as lowering blood sugar levels. Be careful with curry, though. Curries are full of creams and fats that do anything but increase your metabolism. Further Turmeric (or Curcumin) benefits are that it can help detoxify your blood and support a healthy inflammation response. Turmeric or Curcumin should be taken with peperine or black pepper to help with bioavailability.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper helps support body fat by increasing oxygen consumption. Cayenne pepper may also support blood pressure, blood circulation, and digestion. Capsicum is a natural stimulant without the threatening side effects (palpitations, hyper-activity or rise in blood pressure) like most other stimulating agents. Cayenne's primary chemical ingredients include capsaicin, capsanthin, beta carotene, flavonoids, and vitamin C. Cayenne Pepper is a very high source of Vitamins A and C, has the complete B complexes, and is very rich in organic calcium and potassium.
Cinnamon
It is known as an "insulin mimicker" meaning it minimizes the amount of insulin your body produces after a meal by transporting sugar molecules into cells within the body.Cinnamon also may slow down the emptying of the stomach after a large meal, leaving you to fill fuller and less likely to snack. Now, cinnamon rolls don't count. Cinnamon is also an ingredient in our new product, Sweet FX.
Kelp
Kelp is a natural thyroid stimulant, which may support metabolism. Kelp, as well as other seaweeds, raise metabolism in two ways: they affect the thyroid gland and they increase basal metabolic rate (the speed at which your body burns calories while at rest). Iodine, an important component of kelp, has a direct effect on basal metabolic rate. Kelp is believed to stimulate a thyroid hormone which is responsible for boosting metabolism. By returning the iodine levels to normal, it can help alleviate low-grade hypothyroidism. Kelp contains large amounts of potassium, and naturally varying amounts of trace minerals, which may be useful in maintaining proper glandular function and metabolism. Some medications for high blood pressure can increase potassium levels in the blood. Taking Kelp along with some medications for high blood pressure might cause too much potassium in the blood.
Ginger
Studies by ICMR(Indian Council of Medical Research) show ginger supported the digestion process by absorbing the necessary nutrients into the system and regulated the metabolism cycle. The gingerol is the majorly active component in ginger. Such active components in ginger activate the muscular activity in the digestive track and stimulate the chemical reactions in the digestive system. Ginger is an important ingredient used in the traditional Ayurvedic medicines to support the metabolism and digestive system. Researchers have found that ginger may help settle the stomach during times of occasional nausea, motion sickness and morning sickness.
Yerba Mate
A stimulant similar to caffeine, this herb can also increase blood pressure. Yerba Mate is also is a good source of antioxidants. It also contains many nutrients like potassium, chromium, iron, niacin and magnesium. Yerba Mate suppresses your appetite and increases energy levels, therefore stimulating the ability to burn unwanted calories faster. Yerba Mate contains a content named mateine, which increase metabolism and energy. It also help you to get rid of allergy symptoms, act as a gentle diuretic and colon cleanse, nutritionally speed up the healing process and decrease stress. Yerba mate can be used in as a tea drink. It is also found in a supplement pill or energy drink. Those who are on blood pressure medication or are sensitive to stimulants should avoid Yerba Mate.
Green Tea
Green tea is a thermogenic agent, which means, that you may burn more calories. Green Tea is also a stimulant which contains powerful antioxidant, as well as, caffeine. The antioxidants found in green tea also aids in energy production. It can also be found in capsules for those who do not wish to make tea. The chemical in green tea, or Green Tea extract, known as EGCG (or epigallocatechin gallate) is known to speed up your metabolism, among many other benefits.
Bitter Orange
Bitter Orange which is an extract of Seville oranges is a stimulant and works on receptors in fat tissues.
- See more at: http://naturessunshine.com/Blog/post/metabolism-boosters.aspx#sthash.318WUAQM.dpuf
