11 Spring Fruits and Veggies to Boost Your Metabolism

Spring has officially sprung—just glance around the farmer's market for proof of the season's bounty—and a parade of fresh produce is soon to hit your plate. From fruit-packed breakfasts to veggie side dishes that outshine your mains, we're getting geared up to find creative and colorful ways to eat clean. But guess what? Eating your share of certain in-season fruits and vegetables comes with an awesome bonus: the habit can boost your metabolism, too. "Keeping our engine running smoothly and efficiently requires that right balance of vitamins, minerals and nutrients including fiber, protein, fat and healthy types of whole-food carbohydrates," says Dana Hunnes, PhD, MPH, RD, a senior dietitian at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. "Every season has foods that are best eaten in that season, and some of those foods help maintain or increase your metabolism." Here's your produce cheat sheet for spring. Check out these 11 foods, all of which will help keep your metabolism humming smoothly.

April 8, 2015 · 1 min · 176 words · Stephanie Hernandez

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“They can also be used as low-cal, potato-chip alternative to dip into your favorite guacamole recipe.”

Asparagus

This low-cal, high-nutrient veggie should definitely make its way into your regular routine.

Asparagus is also a natural diuretic, so it’ll flush excess sodium out of your system.

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Fava Beans

Opt for this bean when you’re craving a smooth, creamy texture.

They’re high in iron, and deficiencies of it has been linked to slower metabolism, so eat.

“Fava beans are an excellent source of fiber, with iron,” says Moskovitz.

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“They also have seven grams of lean, muscle-building protein per serving.”

Apricots

Another fruit to grab this season?

Golden, tart apricots, which are packed with all-important iron.

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Sugar Snap Peas

Sugar snap peas just sound like spring, don’t they?

“For 35 calories per cup, these fiber-rich peas are a great way to fight bulge.

“Kale is currently in season, at its most nutritious,” Hunnes says.

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in the metabolism-boosting department.

“Again, calcium has been demonstrated to increase your body’s metabolism of fat.

So, eat your greens, especially broccolini, at every meal!”

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