If dropping a few pounds is on your summer bucket list, you’re certainly not alone. But for many people, losing weight can feel like an uphill battle. While it’s definitely not easy—sustainable weight loss takes a lot of dedication, energy, and willpower—there are a few simple steps you can take along the way. That includes adding some potentially waist-slimming beverages to your daily routine! It’s no secret that diet is one of the most important factors of weight loss, but people often overlook the impact of their drinks of choice.
To highlight a few metabolism-boosting beverages that could help you kick your weight loss efforts into gear, we spoke to Dr. Varsha Khatri, a registered dietitian nutritionist. She pointed us toward lemon water, green tea, and more. Find all of her expert recommendations below.
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1. Lemon Water
Drinking lemon water, especially warm lemon water, can kickstart your metabolism in the morning. The vitamin C and antioxidants in lemons can enhance fat oxidation and improve energy levels, which can increase the overall metabolic rate.
"Lemon water is hydrating, which is crucial for maintaining a good metabolism. Hydrating yourself helps with the well-functioning of your body, like managing your weight. Moreover, bloating could be diminished and satiation promoted by utilizing lemon water, therefore helping you lose weight successfully," she states.
2. Kefir
Kefir is rich in protein, which can help increase your metabolic rate. The process of digesting protein requires more energy, leading to a temporary boost in metabolism. Additionally, the probiotics in kefir can enhance the body's ability to digest and metabolize nutrients more efficiently, supporting overall metabolic health.
"Kefir’s probiotics can help stabilize the gut microbiome, which in turn facilitates digestion and the absorption of nutrients. This is key to a healthier body and a faster metabolism," she reveals.
3. Ginger Tea
Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.
Khatri says, "Ginger, known to contain gingerols and shogaols, has been proven to heighten metabolic rate, thereby enhancing fat burning. This can help in the maintenance of a healthy digestive system and improved digestion, which generally boosts metabolic health. Consuming ginger tea regularly could aid in attaining a smaller waistline through these mechanisms."
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV has been shown to reduce belly fat and suppress appetite by increasing feelings of fullness. This can help reduce overall calorie intake and promote weight loss.
"These can result in improved gut health as well as a more balanced microbiome. Before meals, drinking ACV might enable you to stay full longer, thus boosting your efforts to shed weight. Make sure that you select raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar so that you get the most out of it for your health and consider mixing it with lemon juice or honey for better taste," she says.
5. Kombucha
The probiotics in kombucha can help reduce bloating and improve digestive efficiency, while the metabolic boost from its ingredients can help burn calories more effectively. Additionally, the organic acids and enzymes present in kombucha may support fat metabolism, contributing to a slimmer waistline.
"Kombucha, a fizzy tea, contains a lot of probiotics and antioxidants. The beneficial bacteria help to balance the gut flora, which in turn promotes good digestion and absorption of nutrients. Its sour taste and fizziness give it a cool substitute for sugary drinks like sodas, among others, that are unhealthy for our bodies," she notes.
6. Iced Green Tea
Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in polyphenols, which can support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
"Green tea is well-known for the way it raises metabolic rates because of its high concentration of catechins, especially EGCG. These substances help increase fat oxidation and improve insulin sensitivity. Having green tea habitually will provide a nice, gentle boost to your metabolism," says Khatri.
Try it iced for a summer treat!
