If you are ever unsure about some of the foods you should be eating then do not be afraid. Let’s talk about some different items that you can insert into your diet to spice things up a bit. We aren’t suggesting you take our recommendations at face value. You should certainly look into everything yourself and decide if you can implement these into your everyday dieting. Now for the fun part, we begin our list of 10 foods that help you lose weight with possibly the most overlooked item, water.
10. Water
Are you feeling hungry? If you feel hungry you can try walking to the water fountain or reaching for your water bottle instead of eating a snack. Drinking water can help you feel full and save you the extra calories. In fact, in a study presented in 2010 of the National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, Brenda Davy, PhD found that “increased water consumption is an effective weight loss strategy.” This May sound crazy but drinking two glasses of water before meals can help you eat less.
9. Broccoli
Broccoli is packed with fiber, nutrients (specifically calcium), phytochemicals, and water with a relatively low calorie yield. In order to take advantage of Broccoli’s benefits you are going to want to eat it raw. Cooking Broccoli breaks down some of its nutrients. However, if gas is a problem, then try adding some garlic to your broccoli to help with digestion. Cooked or raw, broccoli is a great addition to your overall diet.
8. Salsa
For the most part, the thing that gets us is the hidden calories, especially those found in condiments. The calories in condiments can seem insignificant, but when was the last time you used one tablespoon of ketchup (around 15 calories per tablespoon)? Salsa is a great choice, not only does it add great flavor but most brands only have about 10 calories per serving(two tablespoons). On top of that, Salsa is made from fruit or vegetables and can contain many nutrients.
7. Eggs
Eggs always seem to be a controversial topic. Some say that you should avoid eggs and others say that they should be kept as part of dieting. Generally, adding eggs to your overall diet is a good idea. In terms of protein, they are the marker to which all other protein sources are measured. Proteins are ranked based on bioavailability and their bioavailability is based on the Amino Acid profile. There are essential and nonessential amino acids. Essential amino acids are the type of amino acids that we because our body cannot make them. A ‘complete’ protein has all the essential amino acids in the right quantities. An egg is regarded as having a Bioavailability of 100. Out of all foods, with the exception of protein powders, eggs are at the top of the latter in terms of its protein content. And we mean the whole egg. Egg whites have a bioavailability of 88, which although good, it’s not the same as having an entire egg. On top of everything we’ve mentioned, eggs are a good sources of Vitamin A, Folic Acid, B12, Iron, and potassium. (Source)
6. Raw Almonds
What we consider almonds are really seeds/pits of an almond fruit, not nuts. Raw almonds contain Vitamin E, Fiber, Calcium, Magnesium and protein among other nutrients. A handful of almonds (1/2 oz) has about 92 calories and provides 50% recommended daily intake of B6 and 75% for Vitamin E. Try reaching for the unsalted raw kind as the more they are grinded up the less fiber they contain.
5. Sprouted Grain Bread
Sprouted Grain Bread is different from other types of bread because it is made from wheat cornels that have been sprouted, ground, and baked into bread. This process keeps most of the nutrients that can be lost in the creation of whole wheat or white bread. When compared to other breads, Sprouted Grain has more protein, fiber, and a less amount of fat. The sprouting process also breaks down nutrients and allows for easier digestion in the body.
4. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt differs from other yogurts because it has been strained. The process of straining creates a product that has a greater concentration of nutrients and protein. Plain fat free yogurt has around 137 calories per cup with 18g Carbs, 14 grams protein vs. Greek yogurt that has 134 calories per cup with 9g Carbs, and 24g protein. On top of that, most brands will have the probiotics found in regular yogurts. Probiotics help with digestion and can prevent bloating. The prevention of bloating helps us to feel slimmer.
3. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable that is very low on calories and has high vitamin C content. It is a great substitute in low carb diets. Generally 1 cup of cauliflower has 25 calories that consist of 5g Carb (mostly fiber) and 2 gram protein. Cauliflower can be made into Mashed Potatoes, Mac and Cheese, or Rice. (Source)
2. Grapefruit
This vitamin C filled food has been shown to help control insulin and a study showed that eating half a grapefruit before a meal can help with weight loss. It contains fiber and other phytochemicals that can help with cancer prevention. This is a no brainer for anyone trying to improve their overall diet. (Source)
1. Cinnamon
Cinnamon helps to control blood glucose and is especially good for anyone with diabetes. Cinnamon contains calorie and is a natural item that can be added to many different things including brewing coffee, sprinkling on toast, and even adding it to your protein shakes. (Source)
We certainly hope that this information has taught you something about foods. Always remember that we are here to answer any questions and clear up any doubts you might have. Be sure to check out our article on Why Diets Fail and Setting Goals Like A Boss. These reads will help you to succeed and achieve the results you want!
