Let’s face it. Weight loss can be really tough. You can boost your chances of success by taking advantage of every available tool to help you get the pounds off. You already know about the usual suspects, exercise and diet. But did you also know that what you eat can be as important as the number of calories you take in? Here are a few power foods to add to your weight loss arsenal. Include them in your diet regularly to supercharge your results.
Whole grains – Yes, you can eat carbs and lose weight. Just choose well. Think barley, quinoa and brown rice or other whole grains, complex rather than simple carbs like white bread. Whole grains stimulate the production of leptin, the hormone that helps you realize you have had enough. That means you are less likely to overeat.
Avocados – Avocados are bursting with nutrients. Add to that their power to reduce hunger and belly fat, and you’ve got a winning combination for weight loss.
Strawberries – These tasty treats pack a weight loss punch with anthocyanins. Some studies have shown that anthocyanins help keep fat cells in check. Need another reason to enjoy this juicy package? Strawberries reduce inflammation and fat absorption while lowering blood sugar, too.
Greek yogurt – Full of protein, a must have for every meal, Greek yogurt also helps build muscle. Protein is essential for weight loss because it helps you feel full, boosts metabolism and reduces belly fat. Other good sources of protein include salmon, lean poultry and eggs.
Beans – Available in endless varieties including garbanzo, red, black, adzuki and white, beans are all full of fiber so you feel satisfied. Low in fat and calories, beans also reduce inflammation as well as improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Broccoli – This green power food is full of fiber so it will fill you up without filling you out. Broccoli helps you burn fat more efficiently, too. Get the most benefits by steaming to preserve nutritional value. Avoid dousing with oil or overcooking as most of the nutrients will be lost.
Nuts – Think walnuts, almonds and pine nuts. Keep a handful on hand for a satisfying snack that does your body good. Nuts are full of good for you fats and improve insulin metabolism. They are also chock full of protein. Keep them on hand for a healthy alternative to other crunchy snacks, just remember to enjoy nuts in moderation. They are high in calories.
Green tea – Green tea contains catechins, an antioxidant. These have been shown to offer protection against obesity by encouraging the release of fat from fat cells AND helping the body use fat for energy.
Smart food choices really can help you improve weight loss outcomes by boosting your metabolism and burying your appetite. Add some of these power foods to your diet regularly to finally get off of the weight loss merry-go-round.
