DIET
One rule to follow: eat the highest ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) foods possible. This translates into foods with the highest antioxidant power. There are many lists online. The Canadian and US governments have spent millions on this.
We all need to learn to take note on how high in antioxidants foods are within each group (proteins, carbs, fats) and by following this ONE rule you have the best of ALL worlds: optimal GI (glycemic index) which considers sugar levels, optimal hormone balancing, “Anti-Inflammatory”, ideal protein, and optimal high fiber/good fat, and through this focus you will experience an optimal metabolism! A little known fact is that the Mexican red bean is HIGHER in antioxidant power than the blueberry!
TIPS TO INCREASE METABOLISM THROUGH DIET: EAT HIGH ORAC, EAT BREAKFAST, KEEP HYDRATED, EAT SMALL MEALS OFTEN, EAT LOTS OF FIBER, INCORPORATE SPICES!
OXYGEN
Without oxygen, you can’t metabolize anything or even create energy.  It’s like a bellow on a fire. With a reduced oxygen exchange, your metabolism is lowered.
TIPS TO INCREASE METABOLISM THROUGH OXYGEN: RESOLVE ANY APNEA; BREATHE DEEPLY; APPROPRIATELY MANAGE ANY PRE-EXISTING ASTHMA
STRESS, SLEEP, (and a bonus one here: SUPPLEMENTATION!)
Stress
Don’t cope but manage stress better. Breathing, Yoga, Biofeedback and Meditation techniques are all methods you can learn to decrease stress and increase metabolism.
Sleep
Get enough of it and ensure it is deep and not broken. Quality of sleep improves with optimal sleep hygiene. Make sure you have a cool, dark, quiet environment and don’t forget an ideal mattress (not too firm, not too soft).
Supplementation:
After speaking to your health care provider, consider chromium any and all of the following proven supplements, vanadium, B6, 5HTP or pumpkin seed powder, CLA, EGCG from green tea
EXERCISE
Increase MUSCLE MASS. Don’t focus as much on the cardiovascular. Emphasis needs to be on weight bearing and plyometrics in order to increase your muscle mass – the ONLY metabolic tissue in your body (where fat, water, bone, and connective tissue metabolize VERY few calories).
TIPS TO INCREASE METABOLISM THROUGH EXERCISE: Begin by testing your “Basal Metabolic Rate” using BIA (which deciphers your metabolism) to know what your goals are. Metabolism is highest in morning take advantage and exercise then. And, don’t skip breakfast!