If you want to lose weight, consider making strawberries a part of your diet. According to the US Department of Agriculture's Nutrient Database, one cup of this fruit contains 47 calories and 3 grams of fiber. The high fiber content of these fruits can help you lose weight, as the fiber makes you feel fuller and stay satisfied longer. They are available year-round and can have many uses in a weight-loss plan. There even exists a few versions of a "strawberry diet," but just incorporating them into your regular diet will allow you to reap their health benefits.
As Part of Breakfast
Do not skip breakfast if you want to lose weight. According to the American Dietetic Association, you need breakfast to raise your glucose levels after not eating for 8 to 12 hours. Strawberries provide carbohydrates your body needs to raise glucose levels and fiber to keep you satisfied, making them a good breakfast choice. According to the US Department of Agriculture's Nutrient Database, 1 cup of strawberries has 11 grams of carbohydrate and 3 grams of fiber. Good breakfast meals with strawberries include pancakes with strawberries instead of syrup, a parfait with low-fat yogurt and strawberries and a strawberry smoothie with protein powder and skim milk.
As a Snack Food
Strawberries can make a good low-calorie snack food. Though many believe that snacking causes weight gain, the American Dietetic Association says that if you snack wisely it can help you control your weight and have more energy. Many typical snack foods, such as candy bars and potato chips, are high in calories with very little fiber, as seen in the USDA's Nutrient Database. Snacking on strawberries can help you in your weight-loss efforts because they keep you satisfied due to their fiber content, yet do not add many calories.
You can use strawberries many different ways to incorporate them as snacks. Cut them up and top with light whipped topping, eat them plain or cut them and mix with other fruits to make a fruit salad. Save around 150 calories by eating 1 cup of strawberries instead of a candy bar.
As a Source of Fiber
The American Dietetic Association recommends that women get at least 25 grams of fiber per day and that men get at least 38 grams. With 3 grams of fiber in one cup, this fruit is an excellent way to help meet your daily needs. The ADA also states that fiber may help prevent weight gain as it causes a feeling of fullness.
As a Healthy Dessert
Strawberries make a wonderful dessert because of their sweetness. You can top a piece of angel food cake with strawberries or dip them in a small amount of melted chocolate. A piece of angel food cake topped with 2/3 cup of strawberries has about 160 calories, whereas one serving of cheesecake has around 400 calories per serving. If you follow a weight-loss plan, strawberries can help you enjoy a healthy dessert without feeling deprived.
The Strawberry Diet
The "Strawberry Diet" found on Greathomeremedies.com claims that you can lose five to seven pounds in one week by following their plan. This diet includes eating large amounts of strawberries along with other healthy foods. You may lose weight on this diet due to calorie reduction and an increase in fiber. To avoid a nutrient deficiency, avoid variations of a "strawberry diet" that do not include all of the major food groups.
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