What are the best foods you can eat when you’re on a diet? Well, the answer depends on your approach to losing weight and whether you’re trying to drop pounds quickly or lose fat and gain muscle slowly over time. But one thing’s for sure – there are plenty of diet-friendly foods out there that make sticking to your plan easier and more satisfying than ever before! Check out these seven fantastic foods below to find out more about eating well when you’re trying to lose weight!
Omega 3 fatty acids
Studies have shown that Omega 3 fatty acids are great for weight loss. The American Heart Association recommends at least one gram of these healthy fats per day, but it’s easy to consume more than that if you incorporate omega-3 rich foods into your diet. Some of our favorite sources include salmon, tuna, and avocados! And be sure to stick with wild-caught fish—domestic farmed fish contains less heart-healthy omega 3 fatty acids (and also tends to contain mercury).
Caffeine
A hot cup of joe may just be your new weight-loss weapon. Research has shown that caffeine, because it’s an appetite suppressant, helps people lose weight faster than those who don’t add it to their diet. The key is moderation: too much caffeine can make you feel jittery and tense, but in healthy amounts and if used sparingly, caffeine may help vanquish your body fat. And no, you cannot use coffee as a substitute for exercise. Sorry! Keep in mind that green tea contains about half as much caffeine as coffee; consider switching to it with meals or instead of drinking coffee throughout your day. It also tastes better—and sometimes those other health benefits from tea are what compel us to have another glass at lunchtime.
BCAAs
Although BCAAs may not burn fat, studies show that they play an important role in weight loss. According to research from Yale University, muscle protein breakdown is decreased by adding BCAAs to your diet. This ultimately preserves your lean muscle mass and maximizes weight loss results. One other added benefit of BCAAs is that they minimize any muscle soreness you may experience after a hard workout; so if workouts are an important part of your diet plan, supplementing with BCAAs could be especially beneficial. Many BCAA supplements come in capsule form, but many athletes prefer powder so they can better track how much they’re taking and adjust as needed. If you choose capsules over powder, make sure to read labels carefully and take it according to dosage guidelines. Aim for 2 grams pre-workout, 3 grams post-workout (and perhaps 2–3 grams throughout the day if possible). Always consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen or making changes to an existing one!
Cacao
Many experts believe that cacao is one of nature’s most potent superfoods. It is rich in antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties and promote cardiovascular health, immunity and cancer prevention. It also contains several minerals, including magnesium and iron. The dietary fiber in cacao helps to reduce cholesterol levels, which keeps your heart healthy. As an added bonus, cacao helps your body release endorphins—so you can feel happier after eating it! In addition to consuming cacao through chocolate, consider using organic cacao powder as a supplement or baking with it for its beneficial effects. You can add small amounts of organic cacao powder to smoothies or desserts; combine it with other ingredients (such as coconut oil) for chocolate spreads; or use cacao nibs as snacks or in desserts. Or why not incorporate raw organic dark chocolate into your meals? Use just 1 ounce per day for maximum benefits.
Bone broth
Consuming bone broth is linked to numerous benefits, including weight loss. The amino acids in bone broth are easily digested and help balance hormones that increase satiety. The gelatin found in bone broth is also used by your body to help regulate blood sugar levels, which can reduce cravings and lower cholesterol levels. This brothy soup also contains antioxidants, including glutathione—the master antioxidant that helps flush toxins from your body. And that's not all: Bone broth has even been known to promote hair growth! For many people (myself included), drinking bone broth is easier than eating its component parts or taking supplements.
Stevia
This natural sweetener is 300 times sweeter than sugar and has no calories. It’s derived from an herb that's native to South America and has been used for centuries as a natural sweetener in South American countries like Brazil. Today, many people have turned to stevia as a way to add sweetness without adding excess calories. If you’re watching your weight, opt for stevia instead of regular table sugar or artificial sweeteners. This is one of few types of artificial sweeteners that still has zero calories; all others will have at least some effect on your waistline if consumed in high enough quantities.
Eggs and salmon
Eggs are high in protein and low in calories, making them a great food for weight loss. They’re also inexpensive and easy to prepare. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower your cholesterol levels and may protect against heart disease. Omega-3s are also thought to improve memory, vision and cognitive function. Eggs contain choline, which reduces inflammation throughout your body; salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids as well as vitamin D and selenium, both of which boost immune function. A study from Brigham Young University found that combining eggs with salmon improves weight loss by 63 percent more than just following an egg-based diet alone. In other words: Breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like pauper!
0 Comments