Foods that help you to lose weight innately improve intestinal function, combat water retention, boost metabolism or burn calories. Some examples include watermelon, oatmeal and egg plant.
These foods should be consumed on a daily basis and spread out throughout the day. You should combine these foods with regular physical activity and a diet that is low in sugar, sweets, fat, fried food and processed foods. Your should exercise at least 3 times per week for about 1 hour.
It is important to highlight that you should consult a registered dietitian before starting any diet. A dietitian can outline a meal plan that meets your nutritional needs and goals, which may vary based on your age, weight, health history and activity level.
Weight loss foods
Foods to incorporate into a weight loss diet include:
1. Pear
Pears have a high water content and 71% is made-up of insoluble fiber. This helps to keep you full and improve your intestinal function. The natural sugar in fruits can address your sugar cravings and will gradually increase sugar levels in the blood. Pears can help to reduce hunger and prevent you from eating sweets.
How to consume: To lose weight, you should consume a pear about 20 minutes before eating your main meals.
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an aromatic spice that has a thermogenic effect on the body. It can boost metabolism and contribute to fat loss.
Cinnamon also helps to reduce sugar spikes and increase insulin sensitivity, which are both factors that contribute to weight loss. Other foods that also contain thermogenic properties include ginger, red peppers, coffee and hibiscus tea.
How to consume: You can easily add cinnamon to many meals and snacks, like fruits, smoothies, juices, coffee, tea, cake and cookies. Learn more about the health benefits of cinnamon and other ways to use it.
3. Eggplant
Eggplant is low-calorie fruit and contains just 24 calories per 100 g. It is also rich in fiber, which can be beneficial for intestinal function, cholesterol management and staying full.
This food is also rich in water, vitamins and minerals that help to address fluid retention and bloating.
How to consume: It is possible to make eggplant water to sup throughout the day. You can also add eggplant to salads, and bake it like chips.
4. Whole grain rice
Whole grain rice differs from white rice because it is much higher in fiber. This helps to keep you full and decrease your serving sizes. Whole grain rice is also rich in B-complex vitamins, zinc, and selenium, all which improve blood circulation, concentration and memory.
How to consume: It is important to eat this food in moderation. Although it is a whole grain food, it can have the opposite affect if eaten in high quantities. To determine the right serving size for you, you should see a registered dietitian for a thorough assessment of your nutritional needs.
5. Oats
Oats are rich in soluble fiber and protein, which help to keep you full and regulate bowel movements. Eating oats also helps to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which can help to keep hunger at bay.
How to consume: Oats are a very versatile food, and can be prepared as oatmeal or added to cut-up fruit, smoothies, cakes and cookies. Read more about why oatmeal is good for you and how to prepare it.
6. Wheat bran
Wheat bran is very rich in fiber - it contains 12.5 g of fiber for every 100 g. It is also low in calories and can be used to treat constipation, control blood sugar, and keep you full.
How to consume: Wheat bran does not have a strong flavor, making it a great option to add to any meal.
7. Strawberries
Strawberries are low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great fruit for managing blood sugar levels and increasing satiety. Because it keeps you full, you may find yourself ingesting less calories in the day. It is also rich in vitamin C, folate and other phenolic compounds that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
How to consume: This fruit can be eaten whole or added to smoothies and detox juices to boost metabolism. Check-out other detox juices you can prepare for weight loss.
8. Green tea
Green tea contains thermogenic properties that boosts metabolism and promote fat burning. This tea is rich in caffeine, which is a stimulant that helps with fat loss during exercise. It is also rich in catechins, which are potent antioxidants that help to accelerate metabolism.
How to consume: Green tea should be consumed as directed by a doctor or registered dietitian. To prepare it, add 1 tablespoon of green tea leaves to a cup of boiling water, and allow to soak for 10 minutes.
9. Flaxseed
Flaxseed is an rich in antioxidants and omega-3, a type of healthy fat that helps to control cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation. These factors can both contribute to weight loss. It is also rich in fiber that improve digestion and keep you full.
How to consume: You can add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed or flaxseed flour to cereal, salads, smoothies and yogurt. It can also be added to bread, tortilla and cake dough.
10. Legumes
Legumes like beans, peas, lentils and chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber. They can help to keep you full and manage constipation.
How to consume: Eating 4 tablespoons of legumes per day is sufficient for achieving therapeutic benefits, especially when consumed with whole grain rice, as this combination forms a high quality protein.
