We’ve all heard tales about the best foods for weight loss — zero calorie foods, foods that speed up your metabolism, and magic diet fruit. But are any of them true? Maybe your Mom told you to eat celery because you’ll burn more calories chewing it than it actually has. Maybe your friends swear by only eating raw food because some doctor on TV recommended it (you know who you are!).
Are any of them right? What really are the best foods for weight loss? We’re profiling five foods and telling you why they’ll help you meet your workout goals.
1. Watery Fruits And Veggies
There is some truth to the tale of eating watery fruits and vegetables. Not only do they keep you from dehydrating (which can cause bloating), they fill you up faster! Studies show that eating a lot of watery fruits and vegetables leads to lower BMI, and a smaller waistline. Remember that when you take your watermelon slices to the beach!
Which fruits and veggies should you be eyeing? Here’s a few to get you started:
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe and Honeydew Melon
- Strawberries
- Peaches
- Lime
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini
- Celery
- Green Cabbage
2. Beans & Legumes
Yes, any beans (magic beans not needed). Beans are naturally high in protein, and fiber. They’re filling, and it takes longer for you to digest them — which means you stay feeling full longer! But bean benefits don’t stop there. Legumes are a powerful weight-loss super food. One study found that regular bean eaters have smaller waistlines and a 22 percent lower risk of obesity. One cup of black beans and lentils each packs a whopping 15 grams, 60 percent of the recommended daily minimum. Research shows that for every gram of fiber we eat, we eliminate about seven calories.
3. Oatmeal
If you’re looking for a food that helps to boost your metabolism, you may be surprised to learn that oatmeal is the food you’re looking for! Ever noticed how you feel full longer after a bowl of oatmeal? The high fiber content helps that happen. Stay away from the prepackaged sweetened versions and instead make your own – feel free to add fresh fruit and granola
4. Grapefruit
Touted for being a weight loss cure, grapefruit really is beneficial to your diet goals. You don’t need to drop your morning breakfast to gorge on grapefruit though — instead have half a grapefruit before every meal.
5. Apples
An apple a day really can keep the doctor away – in this case, anyway! Apples are another great source of natural fiber, keeping your appetite down and your digestion healthy.
Are you already incorporating these foods into your diet? If not, what are you’re waiting for?
These are the five best foods for weight loss — what can you switch out for one of these foods today?