There is no need to turn to magic pills, powders and potions that are filled with empty promises of weight loss. Choosing the right foods for your diet can be the catalyst to launch you toward your fitness goals. Whole foods such as lean meats, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy will provide your body with the nutrients needed to lose weight.
Lean Protein
High protein foods will boost your metabolism, build and repair muscle tissue and decrease hunger pangs. Lean meat such as fish, chicken and turkey has low fat and high protein content. Eggs provide protein in the egg whites and healthy fat in the yolk. Beans, nuts and lentils also contain protein that will help you to lose weight. Remember, it's best to eat red meat sparingly because it has a high amount of saturated fat. In fact, research suggests that people who eat more than 18 oz. a week of red meat have a higher risk of colon cancer, says the Harvard School of Public Health.
Fruit
Fruit is packed with natural sugars that will help you control your sweet cravings and fiber that will help to keep you satiated. Fruit makes a healthy snack or as a replacement for high calorie foods. For example, instead of a full bowl of cereal you can add sliced fruit to maintain the volume of the meal while reducing the calories.
Vegetables
To lose you weight you must create a daily calorie deficit and vegetables can help you achieve that goal because they are low in calories, fibrous and full of vitamins and minerals. Instead of eating less food, you could create lower calorie versions of your favorite entrees, says the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention.
Whole Grains
Many people avoid carbohydrates when trying to lose weight but complex carbs such as brown rice, quinoa and oats can be part of a weight-loss diet. These types of carbs will boost metabolic functions and provide stable energy. Processed carbs such as white bread, crackers and chips should be avoided completely.
Low Fat Dairy
Low-fat dairy can help to increase metabolism and decrease appetite because it contains protein, calcium, vitamins and minerals. Choose low-fat versions of dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt to save on calories from whole dairy.
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