1. Chicken Breast Chicken serves as an excellent source of lean protein, and consuming moderate servings can help curb imminent cravings. Versatility is another of its virtues – of the endless ways to prepare and enjoy this bird, a few include grilling it and adding it to a salad, preparing it in a bean chili or shredding roasted slices for healthy chicken tacos.
2. Green Tea This herbal remedy is thought to help gym goers improve their actual weight loss – specifically that in the abdominal area. No one can argue against the myriad benefits of drinking green tea either, even if it does contain a bit of caffeine. The drink has shown potential as a deterrent against cancer and heart disease, and has been linked with preventing diabetes and stroke, circumventing dementia and lowering cholesterol.
3. Cinnamon This tasty spice has incredible health benefits as an anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial food. Anyone wanting to lose weight will benefit from consuming cinnamon because it helps control blood sugar. After eating, cinnamon slows digestion and reduces the rate at which blood sugar rises. Use it to add flavor to your favorite protein shake, drizzle it on whole wheat toast with a bit of honey, or add it to your favorite black bean dish to really bring out the flavor of the legumes.
4. Grapefruit It may not live up to its reputation as a magical fat-burning food, but grapefruit is packed with enough soluble fiber to put a cap on overeating. It’s also a great source of vitamin C. Cut one in half and broil it for a few minutes for a breakfast treat, or slice one up and add it to a bed of greens.
5. Lentils For waist watchers on the go, lentils can provide a quick, easy and nutrient-dense meal. These fast-cooking legumes are high in both soluble and insoluble fiber, which will reduce appetite and satisfy hunger. They are also a great source of protein for vegetarians, one of the reasons why they are a staple in the Indian diet. Add cooked lentils to a cold salad, or prepare them in a simple soup.
6. Asparagus These delicate green spears are only about four calories each, and can help tighten belts by preventing overindulgence elsewhere in the kitchen. High in folic acid and the antioxidants vitamin C and beta-carotene, this is one of pasta primavera’s most delicious ingredients. Asparagus can be sautéed in low sodium chicken broth and served with garlic, chicken and mushrooms for a well-balanced meal.
7. Salmon There’s scarcely a weight loss diet on the market that doesn’t tout the benefits of including salmon in its food pyramid. This fish is high in one of nature’s best weight loss tools: omega-3 fatty acids. Sear or broil salmon and serve over a bed of greens or with a side of steamed vegetables.
8. Blueberries These little round gems are among the most famed super foods. They may be small, but in addition to providing plentiful antioxidants and phytoflavinoids, they pack an anti-inflammatory punch. Enjoy a serving sprinkled with cinnamon and coconut flakes, or add them to a bowl of muesli and non-fat yogurt to kick start your day.
9. Quinoa This low-calorie, low-glycemic South American grain is quickly becoming a North American favorite. In addition to providing dietary fiber to help the body absorb less fat and cholesterol, one serving of quinoa provides 7 grams of protein. Add quinoa to a bean salad, serve it with fruit and nuts at the breakfast table, or serve it as a side instead of rice at dinner.
10. Broccoli Besides being highly nutritious, broccoli helps with weight loss by providing a high-fiber, low-calorie snack. Steam it along with some cauliflower and create a simple soup, or add it to a morning omelet to start the day on the right track.
