Dieters know that the list of foods to avoid when trying to lose weight outweighs the good foods to include in a healthy diet. Or does it? There is a bounty of food choices available for people looking to shed a few pounds. Even better, there are many weight loss foods that increase the metabolism which can help individuals lose weight faster, easier and more safely.
Citrus
During a pilot study conducted at Scripps Clinic, researchers found that study participants who added half a grapefruit with each of their meals lost 3 to 4 pounds. Many of the participants in the study lost even more weight. According to lead researcher, Dr. Ken Fujioka, the participants did not change their normal dietary habits; the only change to their diet was the addition of grapefruit.
Grapefruit and other citrus foods are excellent sources of vitamin C. While the Scripps study only included grapefruit, the health benefits of some foods high in vitamin C have been categorized as superfoods. Nutrition research performed at Arizona State University concluded "that the amount of vitamin C in the blood stream" directly correlates with "fat oxidation."
Vitamin C may not be proven to cure the common cold but recent studies are showing the benefits it contributes to weight loss. Along with citrus fruits, other foods rich in vitamin C include strawberries, tomatoes and sweet potatoes.
Protein
Bodybuilders are known to increase protein in their diet. Why? Since muscle is protein, their theory is to eat more dietary protein to increase their muscle mass. However, protein is much more than an important element in a weightlifter's diet.
Georgia State University research reports that individuals will have a faster metabolism when eating frequent meals -- but not just any meals. Along with a serving of vegetables, adding a healthy protein source such as eggs, chicken or fish is more filling. When the body doesn't feel starved, it will burn more calories. The body works in such a peculiar way that it will store fat and calories if it feels threatened by starvation.
Fiber
Dr. Kristine Clark, assistant professor and director of sports nutrition at Pennsylvania State University, states "Upping your intake of high-fiber foods like vegetables is one of the best ways to increase your metabolism." Dietary fiber can be difficult for the body to digest. In turn, the body uses extra energy to break it down, which increases metabolism.
Raspberries, beans and artichokes are all excellent sources of dietary fiber. One cup of cooked lentils provides the body with 15.6 grams of fiber. Fiber-rich foods like lentils are ideal weight loss foods that increase the metabolism and they are essential for proper digestion.
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The right weight loss foods will help you drop pounds without even feeling as if you're on any form of diet. |
Carb counting can help you stay on target with your diet once you understand precisely how to calculate carb totals. |
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The right foods to eat to lose weight will help keep you satisfied without weighing you down with excess calories and fat. |
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Fat burning foods can not only trim your figure, but fill you up with satisfying flavor. |
Foods that increase metabolism will keep you satisfied and help you lose weight at the same time. It is the ultimate win-win situation. |
We have created the ultimate crib sheet to super health foods that will help you get through the day without hitting that horrible tired slump. All of these foods are packed with energy that will hit you quickly but has staying power to last for hours. |
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A guide to super foods for weight loss, their nutritional benefits and how their nutritional content, like sources of calcium play a role in speeding metabolism and burning fat. |
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These 10 super weight loss foods can help you reach your goals and give your body the quality fuel it needs. |
