When you're trying to lose weight, the key to success is reducing your calorie intake and increasing your calorie expenditure. That's because all weight loss comes down to burning more calories than you take in. There are various ways to do this, but it's important to rely on nutritious foods when planning a weight-loss diet. One way to make cooking and eating healthy foods more convenient is to use frozen foods. Plenty of diet-friendly foods take well to freezing.
Step 1
Use plenty of frozen vegetables and fruits in your meals and snacks. Freezing produce does not decrease its nutrient content. A variety of vegetables are available in the freezer section of the supermarket, and are easily and quickly prepared. Frozen fruit such as berries, cherries, peaches and mangoes can be thawed and eaten plain, mixed with nonfat yogurt or enjoyed on top of cereal. Frozen fruit can also be used to blend an icy, frothy fruit smoothie. Since fruits and vegetables are low calorie, low fat and packed with nutrients and fiber, they are integral to a healthy weight-loss diet.
Step 2
Rely on frozen fish, poultry or lean cuts of meat for diet-appropriate sources of protein. Protein is part of a healthy diet, but leaner options will help you decrease your calories to lose weight. Meat, fish and poultry freeze well and, when thawed, can be prepared in a low-fat manner such as baking, broiling, poaching, roasting or grilling.
Step 3
Cook and freeze healthy soups, stews and chilis to use for future meals. These types of foods can be modified for a reduced-calorie diet by emphasizing clear rather than cream broths; lots of vegetables; whole-grain pasta, brown rice or bulgur; and beans and lentils. Frozen soup, stew or chili can be easily thawed and quickly heated for healthy lunches and dinners.
Step 4
Choose balanced, reduced-calorie, low-fat frozen entrees. They can be a healthy part of your diet if you peruse nutrition facts labels and pick brands that contain vegetables, whole grains and lean protein but not too much saturated fat or too many calories. Keep in mind, however, that most frozen entrees are high in sodium and don't contain as many vegetables as your body needs.
Tips and Warnings
- Any diet will be healthier and more effective with the addition of regular exercise. Ideally, get exercise most days of the week and be as active as possible at other times.
- Consult your physician for approval before starting a new diet or exercise regimen.
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