Tasty recipes that include a blend of lean protein, high-fiber carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables speed up the body’s metabolism. Have a high-caffeine meal in a cup of coffee or green tea for an added boost. Smaller, slightly more frequent daily meals will still keep your metabolism running at a higher rate. Remember, physical activity also raises your base metabolic rate (BMR).

the morning meal

Eat a great morning meal to boost your BMR at the start of your day. Try an omelet with four egg whites with ½ cup chopped bell peppers and onions along with a whole-grain English muffin, or for a comfort meal, toss two tablespoons of raisins and one tablespoon of chopped almonds into a bowl of oatmeal.

Time to eat

For an energy spike, substitute large romaine lettuce leaves for tacos with hot and spicy chicken breast taco filling. Sauté four ounces of shredded white meat chicken with ½ cup finely chopped bell peppers and onions. Include two tablespoons dry taco seasoning mix and ½ cup water. Cook over low heat until thick.

Dinner

These top dishes for a fast metabolism are quite simple to make.

Sauté a six to seven ounce can or bag of Alaskan salmon and ½ pound of your favorite frozen vegetable mix in one tablespoon of canola or extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat for three to five minutes. Spice blends such as Cajun and Italian seasoning blends accentuate the food’s diverse variety. Plus, you can alternate numerous protein and vegetable mixes for endless meal options.

For a tasty energy boost, prepare a crispy baked fish fillet. In a food processor, combine ½ cup dried onion, two tablespoons whey protein isolate, one tablespoon flaxseed meal, ½ teaspoon salt, one teaspoon paprika, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese along with a pinch of cayenne. Pulse for just a minute. Coat a four-ounce fish fillet with the mixture and bake at 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes. Serve with a combination of steamed broccoli, cauliflower and carrots.

snacks

Actually, there are delicious snacks to increase BMR.

Spread a tablespoon of peanut butter on three to four pieces of celery.

Eat pieces of fruit with low-fat string cheese.

Blend 3/4 cup frozen fruit, 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal, 1/3 cup vanilla whey protein, and 1/2 cup skim milk for an invigorating smoothie.

Enjoy a snack between meals during the morning and mid-afternoon hours to maintain higher metabolic rates.