You’ve decided to take the challenge and lose some weight. Congrats! But, as excited as you may be, you need to know what kind of diet plan you should follow to be able to achieve your goals. In this article, we will talk about how to best support your weight loss journey by choosing the right foods.
Reducing Meats
Reducing meat is a key source of nutrition for most overweight people. According to the American Institute of Cancer Prevention, the best approach to lose weight is a plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This type of diet limits the intake of foods with the potential to cause cancer, such as red meat and processed meats. These foods are high in saturated fat and sodium and can increase the risk of heart disease.
If you are looking to shed some pounds, it’s best to avoid foods with the potential to cause cancer and focus on foods that will help you achieve your goal. You can replace your meat intake with more affordable foods such as fish, chicken, or eggs. If you decide that you want to avoid those foods as well for health reasons, then plant-based foods such as beans, lentils, and peanuts are some of the best choices you can make. These contain no cholesterol and are high in fiber, which makes them more filling than other foods. Additionally, these foods are usually more affordable than other options.
Avoid Sweetened Drinks
Drinks that are sweetened with sugar are very high in calories but low in nutritional value. They are often a source of empty calories that cause weight gain. According to Dr. Michael Apter, associate clinical professor of medicine at the University of Sydney, consuming these types of drinks daily can increase your risk of heart disease by 17 percent. If you want to lose weight, then it is best to avoid sweetened drinks completely.
These drinks are usually made with artificial sweeteners, which can cause serious health problems. Instead, try drinking water or juice throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid any cravings. If you want to avoid these problems, then choose drinks that are naturally sweetened with fruit juice or better yet, make your own at home with freshly squeezed fruit.
Choose Healthy Fats
The American Institute of Cancer Prevention recommends that you limit your fat intake to no more than 30% of your daily calories. That way, you’ll ensure that your diet is sufficiently nutrient-rich and that your body won’t be deprived of the necessary fats it needs to function properly. Fats are important for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing many diseases. Eating healthy fats can also improve memory and cognitive functioning.
The best option for healthy fats are unsaturated fats, which are usually inexpensive and readily available. Some of the best choices include nuts, seeds, fatty fish, and oils. These foods offer health benefits that will make your journey to lose weight easier and more enjoyable. If you have a sensitivity to dairy products, then consider eating eggs or using alternative milk products such as coconut milk or almond milk.
Stay Active
It’s important to get plenty of exercise daily, whether it’s a walk, ride a bike, or do whatever else you enjoy. Working out keeps your body active and helps burn calories. The American Institute of Cancer Prevention recommends that you strive for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. This helps maintain a healthy weight, prevents many disease strains, and helps prolong your life.
Choose activities that you enjoy and that promote mindfulness, such as yoga or tai chi, to increase your fitness levels. Remember, regular exercise will help you maintain a healthy weight, so it’s best to enjoy what you’re doing while also staying active.
The key to successful weight loss is focusing on foods that are high in fiber and low in sugar. Some excellent choices are listed below.