To lose weight you have to actually eat, says WomensHealthMag.com, which explains that eating gets your metabolism working at optimal speed and that you actually burn somewhere between 10 percent and 30 percent of your calories just through digesting your food. But what you eat makes a big difference. WomensHealthMag.com suggests filling up on lean proteins, whole-grains, fruits, vegetables and healthy poly and monounsaturated fats.
Avocados
Avocados get a bad rap due to their fat content. But Bellybytes.com reports that avocados are full of healthy poly and monounsaturated fat and omega-3s, all of which are beneficial to the body and your waistline. They help lower your bad LDL cholesterol and ward off heart disease and stroke. Additionally, avocados are full of fiber and potassium, both of which are helpful with weight loss. One cooking tip, the next time a recipe calls for mayonnaise, replace it with avocado for a healthier option.
Raspberries
All berries are low calorie, contain fiber and vitamin C and are nutritious. Bellybytes.com reports that raspberries contain ellagic acid, which can help to prevent some cancers. And you can eat them in abundance; Bellybytes.com reports that one-cup of raspberries contains 60 calories and eight grams of fiber.
Turkey and other lean meats
Protein is a must for any weight-loss plan. Along with building muscles, protein strengthens the immune system and keeps your energy levels high throughout the day. WomensHealthMag.com reports that eating lean sources of protein, such as turkey and chicken, can help ward off obesity, heart disease and high blood pressure.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe is chock full of vitamin C, potassium and beta-carotene, all of which help to protect your cells and lower your blood pressure, according to bellybytes.com. Half of a cantaloupe contains only 97 calories. Bellybytes.com recommends freezing cantaloupe cubes and using them in smoothies. Try blending cantaloupe and raspberries with non or low-fat plain or vanilla yogurt for a healthy but delicious afternoon snack.
Beans and legumes
Beans and legumes offer plenty of low-fat protein, along with a good serving of fiber. WomenHealthMag.com recommends incorporating beans and legumes into your healthy eating plan when trying to lose weight. They explain that beans and legumes help to burn fat, regulate digestion and help to prevent against heart disease.
Broccoli
Bellybytes.com reports that broccoli has plenty of vitamin C, beta-carotene, fiber, incole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane, which can help prevent against some types of cancer. They say one cup has only 25 calories and absolutely no fat. Suggested cooking method is steaming in order to preserve the phytonutrients.
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