Complex food combinations, processed diet foods and packaged food plans might or might not result in weight loss, but a highly effective way to stay healthy while losing weight is by consuming simple foods. This way, you control the amount of salt, sugar, fat and other seasonings that go into your food, and you avoid additives and chemicals. Consult your doctor regarding any health concerns before starting a new diet.
Fruit and Vegetables
Eating a diet rich in fruit and vegetables ensures you get necessary vitamins, minerals and fiber. Most fresh fruits and vegetables are naturally low in calories, making them the go-to choice for many diet plans. An easy way to incorporate more fresh produce in your diet is by starting every meal with your plate half filled with chopped vegetables, a bed of spinach, steamed vegetables, a pile of berries or a salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Replace a sugary snack with a smoothie made of frozen banana chunks and low-fat vanilla yogurt. Swap desserts for fresh peach slices or a bowl of raspberries. These swaps trim up to 1,000 calories from your daily intake, resulting in your losing 2 lbs. per week.
Whole Grains
While high-protein diets might have you thinking carbs are the enemy, the truth is that certain types of carbs give you energy and fiber, and help you lose weight. Simple whole grain foods such as brown rice, wild rice, whole wheat pasta, couscous, quinoa, oatmeal, amaranth and corn tortillas work to nourish your body and make you feel more full than sugary and refined-flour carbs.
Protein Sources
Eating plant-based and lean animal-based proteins supports quick weight loss. You feel full, but consume fewer calories eating one or two servings of homemade lentil vegetable soup or a single serving of grilled fish. If you want animal-based protein, focus on light preparations of skinless poultry and fish, rather than eating red meat. Plant-based protein sources include legumes, nuts and seeds.
Healthy Fats
Choose foods that have healthy unsaturated fats rather than those with trans fat and saturated fat. Fortunately, by eating simple foods, you control the types of fat you add to your dishes. Olive oil and canola oil are heart-healthy unsaturated fats. Simple foods that contain healthy types of fat include olives, avocado, seeds, nuts and poultry. Keep your fat intake under 35 percent of your daily calories consumed to help you lose weight more quickly.
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