Did you know that weight loss is only 20% exercise and 80% diet? This means that if you’re looking to shed some pounds and get healthy, you need to take a look at not just your workout routine but also what’s filling your refrigerator and cabinets.
With so many diet fads out there from low carb to no carb to detoxes and juices, it can be hard to know what foods are best for weight loss and muscle development. Here you’ll discover six of the best foods to help boost your metabolism and start losing weight now.
Eggs
That’s right – the incredible, edible egg. Not only are they an awesome source of protein, but eggs can be enjoyed in so many different ways. From scrambled to sunny side and even hard boiled, eggs make a great breakfast food or mid-day snack.
And don’t be fooled into thinking only the egg whites are good for you – egg yolks carry a host of benefits also. In fact, most of an eggs nutrients are found in the yolk! Eggs aid in weight loss, while providing you with a long list of nutritional benefits. Other natural sources of protein include salmon, almonds, and chicken breast.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This healthy ingredient can be used to make salad dressings, vinaigrettes, or mixed into your favorite drinks, if you have the stomach for it. Vinegar of all kinds is beneficial for weight loss, but apple cider vinegar is especially good at reducing belly fat and lowering your body fat percentage.
Vinegar also helps increase your feeling of fullness when consumed at the same time as a meal rich in carbohydrates. Apple cider vinegar helps your body do amazing things like lowering blood sugar levels, improving your metabolism, and suppressing your appetite and cravings.
Leafy Greens
That’s right, Popeye was right! Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, collards, and Swiss chards pack a real nutritional punch for anyone trying to lose weight.
Not only are leafy greens low in carbohydrates and calories, but they’re also high in fiber. This combination make them a perfect addition to any weight loss diet. If you find it difficult to eat tiny portions, adding leafy greens to your menu is a perfect fix. You can pile them on your plate, without piling on the pounds!
Top these greens with a lean protein like salmon or chicken breast and you have a filling, satisfying, and fat burning meal.
Potatoes
How did a carbohydrate sneak onto this list? Nope, it wasn’t an accident! Boiled potatoes actually contain a host of nutrients that our bodies need to function and fight fat.
If you’re looking for a food to fill you up and ward off cravings, white potatoes are one of the highest in fulfillment and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Boiled, baked, or diced, add a small amount of seasoning or olive oil and you have a healthy carb to pair with your proteins and vegetables.
One of the potatoes’ most beneficial ingredients is potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Avocados
Another amazing healthy superfood – the avocado! Unfortunately, corn chips and guacamole won’t quite suffice as a weight loss meal, but that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate this delicious fruit.
Unlike other fruits that are high in sugar and carbs, avocados are packed with the healthiest of fats including monounsaturated oleic acid. These acids improve blood circulation and help reduce insulin levels. You can add avocados to salads, sandwiches, or eat them plain to give yourself an added dose of fiber and potassium.
Beans and Legumes
These tasty treats are the perfect alternative to meat for any vegetarians or vegans looking to lose weight. Kidney beans, lentils, and black beans can be beneficial to anyone’s diet. Why? They are high in both protein and fiber.
If you’re unsure how to prepare these food staples, you’re not alone. They should be cooked properly. Boil your beans and legumes vigorously for 10 minutes, skimming off any foam that collects at the top of the water. Lower the boil to a simmer and cover the beans for approximately 60 minutes. Beans and legumes taste great in soups, hummus, and dips.
A Balanced Diet is the Best Diet
Incorporating some, or all, of these above mentioned foods will definitely kick start your weight loss goals by reducing cravings while also delivering dense nutrition and proteins. All of these factors play a huge part in shedding pounds.
But it’s also important to maintain a healthy, balanced diet and lifestyle. This means drinking enough water, staying active, and combining different foods at different meals. Switch up your proteins between eggs and legumes or lean pork and poultry with fish. Use healthy fats like avocado and some nuts occasionally, but not at every meal.
Any healthy lifestyle is all about balance and moderation!
Article Submitted By Community Writer
