Being overweight is linked to numerous negative consequences on people’s health. Research has shown that obesity and being overweight are the fifth largest causes of death in the world. The grim statistics reaffirm the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. Physicians are now having a hard time assisting patients to lose weight because the high numbers of overweight patients are increasingly becoming a common phenomenon in society.
The primary risk factors linked to obesity and being overweight include the environment, lifestyles, and genetic predispositions. Among the key strategies recommended for people to achieve successful weight loss are exercise and diet. However, diets are considered the most crucial factor in attaining stability of body weight.
It is imperative to embark on safe weight loss programs as the nature of the strategy applied to lose weight has an impact on the long-term health of an individual. Understandably then, there is a contentious debate on the types of diets that are best applied to achieve optimum results. There are certain foods that aid in weight loss and this article discusses some of the ideal foods to help one lose weight.
Whole Eggs
Traditional studies have always alleged that eggs contain too much cholesterol to be regarded as healthy. However, modern research shows that eggs confer more benefits to people’s health than was previously thought. Consumption of eggs is no longer associated with adverse effects including cholesterol in the blood or an increase in heart attacks. Eggs are rich in protein, healthy fats, and are considerably filling. The protein present in eggs promotes satiety and also regulates hunger as well as hormones that arouse appetite. Their nutrient dense nature is also crucial in any weight loss regimen because they add the necessary nutrients required in a diet with restricted calories.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens possess qualities that make them idyllic for weight loss. They have low levels of carbohydrates and calories yet contain high levels of fiber. Consequently, leafy greens can be added to increase the quantity of food one eats without a concurrent increase in the number of calories consumed. Additionally, leafy greens are highly nutritious and have a copious amount of minerals as well as antioxidants. Antioxidants confer the benefit of reducing the level of toxins in the body.
Acai
Acai berries are ideal because of their anti-oxidant properties. Part of the contributing factor to challenges encountered during weight loss is toxins. Anti-oxidants lower the level of toxins in the body. Furthermore, acai berries also have ample amounts of essential fatty acids and fiber; which are both filling nutrients. The fruits are also known to hasten digestion and provide energy. Having such fruits as part of the diet can be beneficial for individuals involved in intense exercise and fitness routines.
Oats
Oats are laden with fiber and thus help one feel full throughout the day. They contain resistant starch which aids in boosting metabolism and burning fat. Part of the benefits of oats is that they provide the body with a slow-release and natural source of energy throughout the day. Additionally, oats are known to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, potentially increasing the rate of weight loss.
Avocado
Avocados are bountiful in monounsaturated fatty acids, potassium, dietary fiber, and phytochemicals. Oleic acid is an example of the healthy fats in avocado and is known to diminish hunger pangs. Avocados are associated with low body mass index (BMI), a narrow waist circumference, and low body weight. The higher level of calories in avocados compared to other fruits and vegetables is often misconstrued to mean that they are unsuitable for weight loss. However, avocados have healthy fats and are filling, and can help one lose weight.
Almonds
Nuts are among the well-known foods incorporated in innumerable weight loss regimens. Almonds contain ample amounts of fiber and protein. The combination of protein and fiber is highly satisfying; which lowers the temptation to gobble down on an unhealthy snack in between meals. Further, almonds have high amounts of Vitamin E and provide a good source of healthy polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, and can thus be used as a great addition to salads.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is a healthier, fiber-packed food compared to the conventional white rice. The starch in brown rice helps boost metabolism and also burn fat. In addition, the grain contains phytonutrients which are associated with decreased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Further, the food is considered a low energy dense food and has few calories. Consequently, brown rice is ideal for weight loss.
Evidently, some foods have the potential to aid weight loss and should be part of the diet for any individual seeking to be healthy and to lose weight.