Incorporate some color into your daily diet and lose those pesky pounds you’ve been carrying around. Fruits -- the more colorful, the better -- naturally boost metabolism, which makes the body more efficient at burning fat and calories. Fat burning fruits also contain nutrients and minerals that keep energy at a steady level. That way, you won’t be tempted to tear into a bag of chips or too tired to jump on the treadmill.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are easily identifiable by their brightly colored skins and their tart flavor. Citrus aids in healthy living, as it's rich in vitamins and minerals and contains no fat or sodium. The fruits in the citrus family are also acidic, which helps detoxify the body. Oranges, lemons and grapefruits are all citrus fruits and have high levels of vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. Vitamin C burns fat by liquefying it so the body can flush it out of your system. It’s best to eat citrus fruits alone and raw so they can deliver their richest nutrients to your body.
Bananas
Bananas are full of potassium, which increases metabolism by regulating the body’s water balance. This is crucial in weight loss, as a dehydrated body burns fewer calories. One banana clocks in at about 450 milligrams of potassium. Bananas are also a resistant starch -- meaning the fiber they contain is indigestible and sits in the large intestine. This creates by-products that block the conversion of other carbs into fuel, or energy, and forces the body to burn fat instead.
Apples
Apples contain pectin, which restricts the amount of fat cells can absorb. This forces cells to discharge fat deposits, which helps in natural weight loss. The pectin in apples also lowers LDL, or bad, cholesterol. Studies have shown that people who eat two apples a day lowered their cholesterol by as much as 16 percent. Apples are filling and can curb cravings, so try eating one before a meal. Leave the skin on to get the maximum health benefits.
Berries
A variety of berries also contain pectin and are low in saturated fat, carbs and cholesterol. High in fiber, a bowl of berries can keep you full longer and away from the cookie cabinet between meals. Try rotating a mix of blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and raspberries into your diet. Snack on them raw or add them to yogurt or oatmeal. Berries flush toxins out of the body and boost metabolism, which will ultimately whittle your waistline.
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