According to MayoClinic.com, it takes a 3,500 calorie deficit -- meaning your body must burn 3,500 more calories than you take in -- in order to shed 1 lb. of body fat. One way to reduce calories according to MayoClinic.com is to substitute certain foods for other foods that are lower in calories. However, there are some healthy, readily available foods that can help you burn even more calories and lose weight simply by adding them to your diet.
Apples
According to Everyday Health, apples can help you lose weight because they are high in water content and both types of fiber -- soluble and insoluble -- which respectively help to prevent blood sugar spikes that lead to cravings and to fill you up. As an added benefit, apples also contain quercetin, a flavonoid compound shown to help fight some forms of cancer and reduce cholesterol damage while promoting healthy lungs.
Cauliflower, Broccoli and Spinach
Non-starchy vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli and spinach can be eaten in nearly unlimited quantities when you are trying to lose weight, according to Everyday Health, because cauliflower, broccoli and spinach contain the phytonutrient sulforaphane, which may help to fight cancer. These vegetables are also high in folate and vitamin C, which may be helpful for weight loss.
Grapefruit
According to EcoSalon, grapefruit can help you lose weight by lowering the insulin levels that trigger your body to store fat. Grapefruit is also high in fiber, which makes your body use more calories to break it down than foods that contain less fiber.
Almonds
Almonds are extremely high in essential fatty acids, which help to raise your body's metabolism so you can burn more calories faster. However, almonds should be eaten in moderation because they are high in calories. One serving per day is fine for most people.
Low-fat Yogurt
According to Everyday Health, low-fat yogurt can help you lose weight because the calcium combined with other bioactive compounds found in yogurt slows down the process of making fat and increases fat burning, especially around the midsection. Eat yogurt in the morning to jump-start your metabolism.
Fish
Fish can help you lose body weight because fish is more filling than other lean proteins, helping you to reduce portion sizes without feeling hungry after a meal. According to results published by Everyday Health, a study by the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden found that people ate 11 percent less at dinner after having fish for lunch versus those who ate beef for lunch.
Lean Turkey
According to EcoSalon, eating lean turkey can help you burn calories and lose weight by building lean muscle tissue, which can burn extra calories and raise your metabolism. Of course, results will be greatly enhanced by a basic exercise regimen.
Jalapenos
Jalapenos contain capsaicin, which boosts your metabolism and causes your body to burn extra calories for several hours after eating them according to EcoSalon. Even a small amount of capsaicin added to a meal can help you burn extra calories.
Member Comments