If you are trying to lose weight, there are certain foods that can assist you. You are going to want to opt for foods that are lower in calories but are still nutrient-dense and have a good amount of fiber, protein and healthy fats to help you feel fuller for longer. This post is all about the 10 best go to healthy foods for losing weight.
Go To Healthy Food #1: Foods high In protein
Foods high in protein are perfect for aiding in weight loss because they give you that feeling of being satisfied and full – potentially reducing your overall food and calorie intake.
Opt for lean meats such as chicken and turkey, and fish such as mackerel, salmon or tuna.
Eggs are also a great option as they are high in protein and are something you can eat easily on the go – boiled, for example.
Some vegetarian options for protein intake can include foods such as lentils, black beans, chick peas, tofu or tempeh.
Unsweetened Greek yoghurt is another great option as you can easily add it into a bowl with some foods from the paragraphs below and make a super easy, delicious meal with it.
Go To Healthy Food #2: Fruits And Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are usually low in calories and high in fiber, meaning you can eat more without having to stress about consuming too many calories, whilst getting the benefits of a decent amount of fiber. Fiber is an important part of a healthy diet as it can aid in the digestive process and also keeps you feeling full for longer.
Some fruits and vegetables that are particularly high in protein include:
– leafy greens
– berries (particularly strawberries, blueberries and raspberries)
– apples
– pears
– citrus fruits (oranges and grapefruits especially)
– cruciferous vegetables (these include broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower)
– zucchini
– cucumber
– capsicum (or bell pepper)
Go To Healthy Food #3: Whole Grains
Whole grains such as oats, quinoa, brown rice and barley are amazing as they are also another great source of fiber – keeping you feeling full for longer.
Tip: You could mix some greek yoghurt, oats and berries in a bowl as an easy protein and fiber-filled meal
Go To Healthy Food #4: Nuts And Seeds
Although calorie-dense, nuts and seeds contain healthy fats that help you to feel full quickly. They also contain protein and fiber and you can feel satisfied from eating even a small amount of these. Some good options include:
– almonds
– walnuts
– chia seeds
– pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
– flaxseeds
Go To Healthy Food #5: Healthy Fats
Healthy fats are nutrient-dense and are great for reducing cravings and regulating hunger. They are a great option for helping you to feel satiated.
Two oils you can incorporate into your diet include coconut oil and olive oil. Two more great options are avocadoes and fatty fish (such as salmon, mackerel and sardines).
Go To Healthy Food #6: Legumes
Legumes are high in both protein and fiber. They are an amazing option if you are trying to lose weight as they are great for making you feel satisfied and full. These include beans (such as kidney beans and black beans), lentils and peas.
Go To Healthy Food #7: Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are great for weight loss as they have been shown to improve gut health which can help in weight regulation. Opt for a yoghurt that contains probiotics, kefir or sauerkraut and kimchi.
Tip: You can add kefir into your oats to add some extra flavour and goodness.
Go To Healthy Food #8: Green Tea
Green tea is great to drink to assist in weight loss as it is high in antioxidants called catechins. These antioxidants can help increase the amount of fat your body burns and can increase your metabolism. Studies have suggested that the compounds in green tea has the potential to reduce the level of carbohydrates and fat absorption from foods that you eat, which can potentially decrease your overall calorie intake.
A great green tea option is Clipper Organic Pure Green Tea
Go To Healthy Food #9: Water
Sometimes when you think you are hungry – having a glass of water can help you to feel satisfied. Sometimes our brains can signal to us that we are hungry, when we are actually just not hydrated enough. Drinking a glass of water before meals can also help to reduce hunger levels.
Go To Healthy Food #10: Spices
There are certain spices such as cayenne pepper, cinnamon, ginger and turmeric, that can help boost your metabolism and have the ability to contribute to fat loss.
Spices themselves are not high in protein but can have the ability to aid in weight loss by helping to reduce appetite, improving metabolism and promoting fat burning.
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You can easily incorporate these 10 best go to healthy foods for losing weight into your diet. You will find yourself feeling fuller for longer, resulting in eating less amounts of food and also helping you feel more satisfied after eating. Keep in mind that there is no single food that will make you lose weight on it’s own – but that it is all about balance and making healthy choices.
If you loved these 10 best go to healthy foods for losing weight, or if you have any other foods to add, feel free to share in the comments below.