Boosting metabolism can be a great way to promote weight loss and improve overall health. While exercise is one important factor, diet also plays a crucial role. Here are foods that can help boost metabolism ;

1 BRAZIL NUTS - One of the richest sources of selenium, a mineral important for metabolism, reproduction and immune function, is Brazil's nuts. To help people feel fuller, they also contain protein and healthy fats. Selenium is particularly necessary for the thyroid gland, a gland that controls metabolic activity and produces many important hormones.

2 CHILI PEPPERS - Spicy meals containing chilli peppers that are fresh or dried will improve the metabolism and feel complete. For these health benefits and more a compound in peppers, called capsaicin, is responsible.

3 DARK CHOCOLATE - The best pick-up for your metabolism is a slice of dark chocolate every day. Dark chocolate is filled with monounsaturated fatty acids or MUFAS that help increase the metabolic rate so that calories are consumed more quickly. This sweet affects the way fatty acids are synthesised by our body and thus decreases the absorption of fats and carbohydrates.

4 CINNAMON - Not only does cinnamon give a sweet-nutty taste to your cake or pulao, it also increases your metabolism. Consumption of around 1/4th teaspoon of cinnamon powder per day is advisable. It will also help reduce your sweet cravings.

5 EGGS - Eggs are not only low in calories but they stave off hunger because they're an excellent source of protein and some healthy fat. They are a good source of B vitamins as well which have been shown to improve metabolism.

6 WATER - If you do everything right and still do not lose weight, dehydration is probably the reason. A dehydrated body never makes it a priority to burn fat. It will make you feel better and also improve your metabolic rate by increasing your fluid intake, be it coconut water or barley water. Drinking water raises the metabolic rate by 30 per cent.