Arm Yourself with Knowledge

The first and best things you can do to improve your metabolism are to improve your overall health, nourish your body with ideal proportions of a variety of healthy food choices, and lead an active life that includes regular aerobic exercise. Once you have taken these steps, you may want to explore other supplements that can provide additional nutrients to your body as well as short-term and long-term health and metabolism benefits with very little effort. However, David Grotto, RD, a spokesperson for the American dietetic Association, warns, “Supplements can enhance a diet where there are shortfalls, but a handful of vitamin, mineral, or other dietary supplements can never take the place of a healthy diet.”

Please note that just because a supplement is labeled natural or herbal does not mean that it’s inherently safe. Be sure to consult your physician before starting, or radically changing, any physical, nutritional, or supplemental regimen. Some supplements may interact with other medications or other supplements, and some may be dangerous if you take too many.