With the start of a new year come the resolutions to get healthy and lose weight. Besides exercising regularly, we all know that eating the right foods is the key to any weight loss program. Incorporate these “superfoods” into your diet and you’ll not only boost your body’s ability to shed pounds, but you’ll feel great too!
- Avocados: Loaded with healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and protein, this creamy fruit has oleic acid that helps lower cholesterol and may trigger your body to stave off hunger.
- Spinach: High in antioxidants, vitamins A, K, B, C, and iron, this leafy green is a great addition to your diet. It’s surprisingly filling despite having very few calories.
- Oats: With up to 5 grams of fiber per serving, oats will help you feel full throughout the day. The steel-cut and rolled varieties are best because they are minimally processed.
- Salmon: This fish is chock full of omega-3 fatty acids that improve insulin sensitivity and helps build muscle and decrease belly fat. A lean source of protein, salmon will help you feel full without the added fat.
- Blueberries: These tiny berries have the highest antioxidant level of all commonly consumed fruit. With 4 grams of fiber and only 80 calories per one cup serving, blueberries are a nutritional powerhouse.
- Lentils: Lentils are a great source of satiating protein and fiber. By eating them you’ll prevent insulin spikes that cause your body to create excess fat, especially in the abdominal area.
- Eggs: Don’t worry about cholesterol content when it comes to this breakfast staple. They may get a bad rap, but eggs are packed with protein that will help curb your appetite.
- Quinoa: This grain has become increasingly popular, and for good reason! High in both protein and fiber, this nutrient combo keeps you feeling full longer and with fewer calories
- Apples: Just one large apple has 30% of your minimum amount of daily fiber. And not only that, apples have tons of antioxidants, potassium and vitamin C for as little as 80 calories a serving.
- Kale: This often ignored leafy green is a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, filling fiber, and is low in calories as well! A one cup serving is only 34 calories, and also packs a hearty helping of iron and calcium.