The Top Fat-Burning Foods

Yes, the foods you eat can help rev your metabolism so you burn more calories. Watch this video to learn about the foods you should be eating to burn fat and shed pounds!

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Whole grains

This pancake recipe may sound decadent, but thanks to wholesome ingredients and some smart swaps, it's actually good for you. One serving packs 26 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber, and a powerful punch of antioxidants. You'd be hard-pressed to find a better breakfast option.

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Lean meats

You can burn up to 300 extra calories every day just by eating the right foods. Watch the video to learn how to put together a chicken recipe that burns fatand calories, helping you to slim down faster. Plus, it only takes 5 minutes to make! Get the recipe: Grilled Chicken Cutlets With Summer Succotash

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Low-fat dairy products

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Rich in calcium and vitamin D, these help preserve and build muscle mass—essential for maintaining a robust metabolism.

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Green tea

For a quick metabolism boost, blend up this calorie-burning green tea smoothie. It's richer and more filling than a cup of hot green tea. Plus, it's flavored with tasty ingredients like lemon, agave nectar, and cayenne pepper. Get the recipe: Spiced Green Tea Smoothie

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Lentils

One cup packs 35% of your daily iron needs—good news, since up to 20% of us are iron- deficient. When you lack a nutrient, your metab slows because the body's not getting what it needs to work efficiently, says Tammy Lakatos Shames, RD, co-author of The Secret to Skinny.

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Hot peppers

red-pepper-hot — Tim Hawley/Getty Images

Capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their kick, heats up your body, which makes you melt additional calories. You can get it by eating raw, cooked, dried, or powdered peppers, says Lakatos Shames. "Add as much cayenne or hot sauce as possible to soups, eggs, and meats."

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