Your metabolism refers to the various processes occurring within your body that transforms the food you take in to energy. Aside from its function of converting energy, metabolism also keeps the body working as it should, repairs body parts and rids the body of toxins. When the body receives the necessary nutrients from a balanced and healthy diet, is kept hydrated with water and kept fit through exercise, metabolism remains healthy. When any of these components are lacking, metabolism slows, leading to fatigue, fat gain and ill health. Thus, it is important to keep the metabolic rate up so the body functions at its best.

Since it is not possible to get all the nutrients our body needs from the food we eat, vitamins are essential in providing what is lacking. Besides, there are also vitamins that enhance metabolic function by transporting oxygen to various organs and tissues in the body. Others are involved in the conversion of carbohydrates, proteins and fats into energy while others help in the removal of toxic waste.

Vitamins that increase metabolic rate perform these functions. The B-vitamins as well as Vitamin C are important in this regard. Vitamin B-2, B-5 and B-12 help improve metabolic rate while Vitamin C is an antioxidant that also regulates it.

Vitamin B-12 is an essential vitamin important for the production of red blood cells. It also helps raise your energy levels, aids digestion and increases the levels of energy in your body. By taking 2.4 micrograms a day, adults can help their body metabolize fats and optimize nutrient absorption from food. Natural sources of Vitamin B-12 include fish like salmon and cod, sunflower seeds, almonds, poultry with skins and bones removed and beans.

Vitamins that increase metabolic rate also transport oxygen to the cells, tissues and organs. They also convert fats, carbohydrates and protein into energy. Vitamin B-5 helps in this purpose. The adult daily requirement for this vitamin is only 5 mg daily. Aside from supplements, it can be taken from such sources as low-fat milk, low-fat yogurt and broccoli.

Vitamin B-2 is another vitamin that increases metabolic rate. Besides converting fats and proteins into energy, it also helps stimulate red blood cell production and removes accumulated toxins in the body. Adults can take about 1.3 mg a day from supplements or from various sources such as whole grain cereals, cheese, kale, spinach and low-fat milk.

One of the most powerful vitamins discovered as of yet is Vitamin C. It strengthens the immune system and fights free radicals that wreck damage to the body's cells. It also helps the body absorb iron so that oxygen can be smoothly transported to the cells, tissues and organs of the body. These processes help regulate the body's metabolic rate. Most fruits have high Vitamin C content. Oranges, strawberries, cranberries and pineapples in particular are chockfull of this important vitamin. The recommended daily allowance for this vitamin is 75 mg to 90 mg, but most adults pop in a 500 mg Vitamin C tablet to help the body fight the stress and toxins encountered day-to-day.