You’ve decided to adopt a healthier lifestyle and you’ve decided to lose weight. Maybe you’ve heard that it’s better to eat healthy food rather than processed food, or maybe you’ve seen the numerous health problems caused by too much of the latter. Either way, you’re on the right track. What you may not know is that there’s a wealth of healthy food products that can help you reach your goals. We’re not advising you to go low-carb, rather we’re encouraging you to expand your culinary horizons and indulge in delicious foods that will see you through to the other side. In this article, we’re going to tell you about some of the foods that can help you lose weight. These foods are high in fiber and complex carbohydrates, meaning they take longer to break down and create a lower risk of blood sugar spikes. If you want to lose weight, then the sooner you start eating these foods, the better. Let’s get started.
Dark Chocolate
If you’re looking to shed some pounds, then dark chocolate could be just what you’re after. Dark chocolate contains a mix of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that nourish the body and help to fight off oxidative stress. This is a cause of aging and disease. Dark chocolate also contains the nutrient magnesium which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety. While we don’t recommend depriving yourself of sweets, if you’re really determined to lose some weight, then dark chocolate is the perfect alternative.
Oatmeal
We’re always looking for ways to improve our everyday lives and what better way to do that than by changing the way we eat. Oatmeal is a wonderful example of a food that is both easy to prepare and good for the body. It provides a healthy source of fiber that can settle your stomach and keep you feeling full for longer. Oatmeal has also been shown to reduce cholesterol and prevent heart disease. If you’re not too sure about trying a new food, then oatmeal is the perfect alternative for when you’re feeling weak or low due to dieting. It’s high in fiber so it may take you longer to feel hungry afterwards, potentially helping you to keep your weight under control.
Whole Grain Bread
Whole Grain Bread doesn’t have to be boring! Even though it’s a basic food staple, whole grain breads contain a wealth of nutrients that promote heart health, stabilize blood sugar levels and help to maintain a healthy weight. Whole grain breads also contain antioxidants that act as small fighters in your body, battling and defending your body against harmful free radicals. These compounds are also known as phytonutrients and can help to reduce the look of aging by improving the skin’s natural defense against harmful ultraviolet rays.
Green Tea
Green Tea is another wonderful source of health benefits and it’s been shown to boost metabolism, reduce inflammation and support nerve function. The polyphenols in green tea have been proven to protect the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation and free radicals. The combination of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in green tea could help to improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and other signs of aging. What’s more is that green tea has been shown in studies to help to increase the body’s tolerance to exercise, meaning it could be the perfect drink for those who are keen to get active and shape up. Green tea is also packed with vitamin C, which promotes collagen synthesis and healthy, shiny skin. It’s no wonder why green tea is one of the best foods for skin health.
Beans
Beans are a fantastic source of fiber, complex carbohydrates and a range of vitamins and minerals that promote strong bones, antioxidant activity and energy production. Beans are also a great source of protein that can be used to build lean muscle, which in turn can help to boost your metabolism and make you feel happier overall. What’s more is that beans are relatively easy to cook and they require very little preparation time before they’re ready to serve. This makes them ideal for people who want to get meal prep done quickly so they can get on with their day. If you’re really wanting to lose weight, then try mixing beans with some fresh garlic, onions and herbs to make a hearty minestrone soup that will fill you up and keep you warm on those chilly autumn/winter days. Yummy!
Salmon
Salmon is a fantastic source of protein that is high in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. What’s more is that salmon has been shown in studies to reduce cholesterol, prevent heart disease and fight off infections. One serving of salmon has also been shown to provide more than half the daily recommended value for vitamin D. Vitamin D is vital for the body’s absorption of calcium, which promotes strong bones and teeth. In addition, vitamin D can also help to regulate the body’s insulin levels, which aid in weight loss. Omega-3 fatty acids are also known to reduce inflammation and mental distress, which means they could prove to be invaluable in helping you relax and switch off from stressful daily life events. It’s been well documented that stress can contribute to weight gain. Salmon is a wonderful food to incorporate into your diet if you’re really wanting to shed some pounds.
Fruit
Fruit is one of the simplest ways to provide your body with nutrients and it’s also one of the best foods for weight loss. The sugars that fruit contain provide your cells with much-needed energy, which aids cellular respiration and promotes growth. What’s more is that the fiber in fruit promotes fullness and regularity, leading to fewer calories being absorbed by the body. The complex carbohydrates in fruit provide long-lasting energy and they’re also easy to digest.
The fiber and complex carbohydrates in fruit also make it a great choice for individuals with type 2 diabetes. The absence of sugars and the presence of fiber make fruit an ideal choice for those with impaired glucose tolerance as well. What’s more is that fruit is a rich source of natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that act as small fighters in your body, battling and defending your body from harmful free radicals and other cell-damaging compounds.
If you want to lose weight, then try adding fruit to your diet. It’s high in fiber and low in calories, meaning it could be the perfect alternative to some of the fad diets you might come across. Certain fruits contain a chemical that blocks the absorption of dietary fats, meaning they could be used to treat obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Consult your doctor before starting any new diet program and try to stick to a natural diet as much as possible.
Berries
Berries are another fabulous source of nutrients and antioxidants that promote healthy skin. They’re high in vitamin C, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that fight fat, degenerative conditions and cancer. What’s more is that berries are relatively easy to grow and prepare, which make them ideal for people who want to get meal prep done quickly. This is especially beneficial if you have a hectic schedule like most people do these days. Berries are also relatively inexpensive and easy to buy, so they’re perfect for people on a budget. If you’re really wanting to shed some pounds, then berries could be a great choice. Eating berries could also help to improve your mental well-being. Those who consume berries frequently report higher moods and fewer headaches compared to those who don’t eat them regularly. What’s more is that the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in berries could possibly help in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The evidence strongly suggests that eating berries could help to maintain healthy brain functioning.
Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate juice is another food that is packed with nutrients and antioxidants. It’s a fantastic source of vitamin C, vitamin E and other important nutrients such as vitamin B. These nutrients work in synergy to provide your skin and nails with essential defenses against damage and disease. Pomegranate juice is also high in citric acid, which cleanses the skin of dirt and oil. Pomegranate juice is commonly used in cosmetics and dermatological products because of its exceptional ability to improve human skin. Drinking pomegranate juice is also associated with fewer signs of aging, thanks to the nutrients it contains. What’s more is that pomegranate juice has been shown to be an effective natural cure for sunburns. Just remember to protect yourself from overheating by staying out of the sun and drinking plenty of water if you do end up getting sunburnt. Pomegranate juice is another wonderful food to incorporate into your diet if you want to lose weight.