When your metabolism needs a little boost, exercise is always a great option. But, you may not realize that there are certain foods that can help your body burn more calories all day long! Check out this list of 9 foods that help you burn calories.

1. Eggs

Eggs contain a high amount of protein, with very few calories. They also contain the entire range of amino acids that are essential for your body to function properly. When you eat eggs for breakfast, you will be satisfied longer, and this helps to reduce cravings and can help with weight loss. Make sure you are eating eggs before your morning workout!

2. Chia Seeds

These seeds have been used for centuries in Central and South America, and in other cultures as well as a supplement for preventing diabetes, obesity and heart disease. Chia seeds contain high amounts of anti-inflammatory fats, as well as protein and fibre. When you add chia seeds to your diet, you will feel fuller for a longer period of time, which means you are less likely to reach for unhealthy snacks midday. One tablespoon of chia sees contains a massive 2,500mg of omega-3 fatty acids, 4.5 grams of fibre, 3g of protein and a ton of phytonutrients that help your metabolism.

3. Cinnamon

Not only a delicious spice that adds tons of flavour to any food, cinnamon has metabolism-boosting properties that can help slow the body’s absorption of glucose and help with insulin regulation. Cinnamon also contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to prevent obesity. Cinnamon also promotes slow gastric emptying, which helps keep blood sugar in check and reduce cravings. Try adding cinnamon to your coffee for a nutritional boost and great flavour!

4. Berries

Berries contain large amounts of polyphenols, which help to fight disease and also give you plenty of cardiovascular protection. Cranberries, strawberries and blueberries contain the highest amounts. Berries help to control weight gain, slow fat absorption, and control blood sugar. They can help to prevent diabetes and obesity. They also help to keep the gut bacteria balanced. Try berry smoothies for breakfast for a nutritional boost!

5. Ginger

Ginger has long been recognized as a multi-purpose remedy for many problems. It has anti-inflammatory properties, can help reduce blood pressure, help regulate insulin production and glucose absorption, and calm the digestive tract. Ginger helps burn fat and can be used to treat constipation, bloating, indigestion and nausea. Add ginger to many dishes, including stir fry, or make a tea by steeping ginger in hot water.

6. Green Tea

Green tea is notorious for helping with fat burning and weight loss. Black tea and coffee are also helpful for this, but green tea really has the best benefits. The caffeine helps to burn more calories, which helps to oxidate more fat. The polyphenols in green tea help keep your metabolism running strong, contributing to greater weight loss. Aim for two or three cups of caffeinated green tea each day, and experience the many wonderful effects—including promotion of healthy digestive bacteria and hunger balancing.

7. Avocados

Avocados contain large amounts of healthy anti-inflammatory fats, as well as protein, phytonutrients and fibre. With up to 17 grams of fibre in one avocado, you can really use this to your advantage when trying to meet your recommended daily intake. Avocado oil has a high amount of monounsaturated fats, especially omega-9 (oleic acid), which helps to control hunger. Diets rich in monounsaturated fats help protect you from building up large amounts of abdominal fat. Try adding a half of an avocado each day to help control hunger and get the great health benefits.

8. Quinoa

Quinoa is a gluten-free option for grains, and contains plenty of nutrients. It is high in magnesium, which keeps energy levels steady and controls blood sugar. Quinoa is also very filling and keeps you satisfied for longer periods of time. It is important to rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove the saponin (a bitter tasting and potentially toxic chemical). Also, while quinoa has many healthy properties, it does contain high levels of oxalates, which can lead to kidney stones in those who may be prone to developing them.

9. Cayenne Peppers

These spicy peppers really boost your metabolism, and this is largely due to the capsaicin that is contained within them. When you consume capsaicin, your nervous system activates your “fight or flight” response, which releases certain hormones (catecholamines, which include epinephrine and norepinephrine). This results in quicker thermogenesis and greater fat burning. Stick to the real thing with cayenne peppers, and avoid using the supplements, since they do not provide the same benefits.

In addition to going to the gym, add these 9 great foods into your diet for maximum fat and calorie burning power!