Not all foods are equal in the way that they affect the body. When looking to lose weight, it is helpful to eat foods that help your body burn calories and increase your metabolism. Dr. Janet Starr Hull reports that certain foods trigger the fat-dissolving hormone glucagon to be released. The more foods that you eat that do this, the faster and more efficiently you will lose weight.
Milk and Dairy Products
The calcium in milk and dairy products, like yogurt and cottage cheese, can trigger your metabolism to kick it up a few notches, according to the "New York Daily News." The paper reports that a study at the University of Tennessee showed that consuming 1,200 to 1,300 mg of calcium a day resulted in significantly more weight loss than lower calcium amounts. Additionally, the combination of complex carbohydrates and protein in milk keeps your insulin levels stable, which is important in order for your body to burn and let go of fat.
Whole Grains
Whole grain foods such as cereals, breads and oats contain an efficient mix of complex carbohydrates and fiber. These foods also keep insulin levels in check and prevent spiking. The "New York Daily News" reports that when your insulin levels spike, it is a signal to your body to store fat. Additionally, foods such as whole grains take a long time for your body to digest, which means that you stay satiated for longer periods of time and your energy levels will be boosted. These foods make excellent breakfast choices as they give your metabolism a kick-start in the morning that can keep it going all day long.
Chicken
The "New York Daily News" reports that lean protein choices, such as skinless chicken breasts, can boost your metabolism and calorie burn. Protein keeps your insulin levels from rising sharply and it takes some work for your body to digest it. Chicken is a good choice, but other beneficial forms of protein are lean turkey, lean cuts of pork, lean meats and seafood such as, salmon, Albacore tuna, clams, shrimp, mussels, crab, halibut, whitefish and red snapper.
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