Changing your diet to a healthier one is important for both your health and to help you lose weight, but what foods are best? In Winter Haven, FL, you hear all sorts of stories of crazy diets and stories of super foods that magically make you thinner. Unfortunately, there is no one magical food. While some foods will help boost weight loss, that food has to be part of a healthy diet if you want to be successful.
First, let’s look at food you need to avoid.
Just by cutting certain foods out of your diet, you’ll boost your chances of success. Whether it’s a sugary food or sugary beverage, eliminating foods with added sugar should be the first step. That includes energy drinks and alcohol. Don’t replace those with foods that use a sugar substitute. It will put inches on your waistline. Most people know that pastries, baked goods, foods high in refined carbs, like white bread, processed meat and deep-fried foods should be eliminated.
Fruits and vegetables make the top spot in the list.
Fresh fruits like bananas, apples and melons or leafy green vegetables like spinach increase weight loss. Both are high in fiber. Avocados not only are high in fiber and nutrients, but they also contain healthy fat, which keeps you feeling full longer. It also is loaded with nutrients, antioxidants and even a significant amount of protein, which keeps you feeling fuller longer. Crucifers such as cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, as well as all other vegetables that aren’t starchy, like potatoes, can boost weight loss efforts.
Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids or lean protein are excellent choices.
Choosing food high in lean protein, such as fatty fish or poultry, will help you shed extra pounds by filling you up and not out. That fatty fish, like salmon or tuna, can also help shave off the pounds, since they’re high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 can boost your metabolic rate and improve your ability to burn more calories. They also are anti-inflammatory and can decrease insulin resistance, both of which boost your efforts to lose weight.
- Refined wheat bread is highly processed and doesn’t contain nutrients or fiber, which keeps you feeling full. Opt for whole grains in your diet. They are also sources of vitamin B complex, zinc and more.
- Choosing protein and a carb for a snack before and after a tough workout can help build muscles. Whether you choose peanut butter sandwiches, yogurt and fruit or cheese and apples, it will help recovery and weight loss.
- Drink extra water. Water has no calories but fills you up. Studies show that if you drink an 8 ounce glass of water before a meal, you’ll eat less and lose more weight.
- Combine that healthy diet with regular exercise to get the maximum benefit. The more muscle tissue you build, the easier it is to lose weight.
For more information, contact us today at Habitat Health & Fitness