A diet consisting of healthy and nutritious foods is an important factor in weight loss. Eating the right foods also reduces your risk for certain medical conditions such as diabetes and obesity. Many diets fail because of the uncertainty of what is and is not allowed on a diet. To increase your chances of a successful diet, avoid fad diets and learn which foods have the healthiest benefits.
Grapefruit
The grapefruit is rated the best choice for dieting out of any other citrus food. According to "Why We Get Fat and What to Do About It", Grapefruit has the ability to lower the levels of insulin in your body, lowering your feeling of hungriness at the same time. Because grapefruit can be an acquired taste, other citrus fruits can be used in its place. Regardless of the fruit you choose, the vitamin C citrus fruits include helps to burn fat in your body and gives your diet a much needed boost in metabolism.
Spinach
A 2-cup serving of raw chopped spinach contains just 2 g of carbohydrates and 13 calories, making it one of the best nutrition sources you can choose. Each serving of spinach is filled with healthy nutrients such as folic acid, magnesium, manganese, lutein, beta-carotene, vitamins C and K and protein. There are numerous ways you can eat spinach and keep the nutrients intact. Try creating a salad out of raw spinach, saute the leaves in a small amount of oil or steam it and serve it as a side dish.
Almonds
Out of all the nuts, almonds contain the most protein. Almonds are high in calcium, potassium and magnesium, as well as monounsaturated fat, which is a big help in lowering cholesterol levels, especially the bad variety. Almonds are also rich in oleic acid, which helps protect you from developing heart disease. A 1-oz. serving of almonds is approximately 165 calories. Almonds make an especially good diet choice for those who are trying a vegetarian diet as it gives you a source of protein that does not come from meat.
Coldwater Fish
Coldwater varieties of fish, such as salmon, tuna and mackerel are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which is helpful in reducing the risk of developing heart disease. A 3-oz. serving of coldwater fish contains approximately 120 calories and 3 g of fat. Fish can be grilled or baked for a healthy meal. Garnish with a lemon that can be squeezed over the top to add additional flavor.
References
- "Why We Get Fat and What to Do About It"; Gary Taubes; 2010
- "Food Rules: An Eater's Manual"; Michael Pollan; 2009
- American Heart Association: Fat
- American Heart Association: Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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