Trying to lose weight doesn’t mean you have to stick to boring salads and bland foods. There are plenty of delicious options that can actually help you shed those extra pounds. Some of these foods might even surprise you! Many of these foods can help boost your metabolism and keep you feeling full longer which is key when trying to lose weight. With this list, you might even find some new favorites to enjoy on your journey to a healthier you.
Avocados
Avocados are high in healthy monounsaturated fats that help keep you full and satisfied. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion. Despite being calorie-dense, studies show that avocados can reduce overall appetite and decrease the desire to eat for hours after a meal. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins and minerals.
Nuts
Nuts like almonds and walnuts are rich in protein and healthy fats. They’re perfect for snacking because they help curb hunger and keep you full longer. Nuts are also loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Despite being high in calories, they’re associated with reduced waist circumference and lower body weight due to their effect on satiety.
Chili Peppers
Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which boosts metabolism and increases fat burning by raising your body temperature. This process, called thermogenesis, helps burn more calories. Additionally, capsaicin can reduce appetite and decrease calorie intake at subsequent meals, making it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is packed with protein, which helps build muscle and keep you full. The probiotics in Greek yogurt aid digestion and improve gut health. Studies have shown that including high-protein foods like Greek yogurt in your diet can lead to reduced hunger and lower calorie intake throughout the day.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great source of soluble fiber, which helps control your appetite by slowing down digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. It stabilizes blood sugar levels, preventing spikes and crashes that can lead to hunger and cravings. Starting your day with a bowl of oatmeal can help you eat less overall.
Berries
Berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are low in calories and high in fiber. They provide a sweet way to satisfy your cravings without adding extra weight. Berries are also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which contribute to overall health. Their high water content helps keep you hydrated and full.
Eggs
Eggs are high in protein and healthy fats, making them an ideal food for weight loss. Eating eggs for breakfast can reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day by keeping you full and satisfied. They’re also incredibly nutrient-dense, providing essential vitamins and minerals with relatively few calories.
Dark Chocolate
In moderation, dark chocolate can satisfy sweet cravings while being lower in sugar than milk chocolate. It contains healthy fats and antioxidants that can improve heart health and boost mood. Dark chocolate can also help reduce stress and curb appetite, making it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They add bulk to your meals, helping you feel full without adding extra calories. Leafy greens are also rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Adding apple cider vinegar to your diet can help control blood sugar levels and reduce appetite. Studies have shown that vinegar can increase feelings of fullness and help you eat fewer calories, leading to weight loss. It’s easy to incorporate into your diet by adding it to salad dressings or drinking a small amount diluted in water before meals.
Legumes
Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber, which help keep you full and satisfied. They’re low in fat and high in complex carbohydrates, making them great for sustained energy. Legumes also have a low glycemic index, meaning they don’t cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Including legumes in your diet can help control hunger and promote weight loss.
15 ‘Healthy’ Foods That Are Making You Gain Weight
Eating healthy but still gaining weight can be frustrating. Some foods marketed as healthy are actually causing those extra pounds. From granola to smoothies, these seemingly good-for-you options can be loaded with hidden calories. Take a closer look at 15 “healthy” foods that might be sabotaging your diet.
Read it Here: 15 ‘Healthy’ Foods That Are Making You Gain Weight
Here’s What It Took For Me To Actually See My Abs
Getting visible abs is often seen as the ultimate fitness goal, but the truth behind achieving it might surprise you. It’s not just about endless crunches and sit-ups; it involves a lot more than just working out. A few years ago, I set a personal goal that seemed natural for a four-year CrossFit enthusiast: I wanted to see my abs. Despite the hours I dedicated to the gym, they had remained elusive. As a woman in my mid-30s who ate healthily and lived an active lifestyle, I was curious what more it would take to finally achieve this. Here are the key adjustments that helped me the most.
Read it Here: Here’s What It Took For Me To Actually See My Abs
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
