Disclaimer: none of the foods mentioned below should be considered as standalone solutions to weight loss. The only healthy and proven method to weight loss is through following a balanced diet and exercise routine. Introducing these foods to your diet is considered as a supplement only and not a replacement.
1) Ginger
Nature’s remedy superstar! Ginger packs the punch in flavor and nutritious properties. The plant root helps relieve digestive problems, reduces inflammation, increases blood flow -which helps muscle recovery –, acts as a natural appetite suppressant, has fat burning properties and more! If you are trying to lose weight, ginger is your best friend and you can easily add some to your tea, salad dressings, and/or stews.
2) Green Tea
More than just a warm drink to cozy up at the end of the day, green tea the best hot beverage on earth. This drink is loaded with antioxidants! The most important one being EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate), a substance that has been shown to boost metabolism. Green tea also has just the right amount of caffeine to stimulate fat burning properties -especially during exercise- and let us not forget about its soothing effect. Start having two cups of green tea a day for better health.
3) Celery
A perfect cleansing snacks. Celery contains a great amount of water and fibers which contributes to a person’s feeling of fullness and satiety. Research has shown celery’s anti-inflammatory benefits by improving the digestive tracts and containing a diuretic effect that can help eliminate toxins from the body. In addition, celery contains minerals such as calcium, sodium, potassium, copper, magnesium and iron. Looking for that detoxing vegetable to add to your diet? You can start with celery.
4) Chili Pepper
Adding some spice to your life is always a good thing. Chili peppers can help temporarily speed up your metabolism for up to 30 minutes after eating it because of a chemical called Capsaicin, the thing that gives you that burning sensation in your mouth. Some consider the best time for a spicy meal to be right before a workout. Who knew? Heating up your soups or salads may help you burn fat!
5) Chia Seeds
A seed disguised as a fish! That is right these super seeds are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids commonly found in fish and sea food. In addition, a combination of dietary fibers, vitamins, minerals, and proteins truly make chia seeds the definition of a super food. Chia seeds help with energy, metabolism, digestion, skin, disease prevention and more. They are an easily digestible and versatile ingredient that you can add to about everything from smoothies, salads, to yogurt.
6) Grapefruit
Some fruit you can always count on! On top of being large enough to be hydrating and filling, grapefruit is loaded with vitamin C and is known for its low glycemic index which some theories may help increase metabolism and burn fat. Its tangy flavor curbs your sweet tooth and lowers insulin levels to keep your appetite at bay. Also high in fiber, grapefruit is fantastic as a snack on its own or an additive to some cottage cheese and/or salads.
7) Coffee
Contrary to popular belief, coffee is actually very good for you. Coffee improves blood circulation and is also a great source of antioxidants. Most importantly, having a controlled amount of caffeine loaded coffee in your diet has been proven to boost your metabolism and enhance your exercise performance. Start having a cup of coffee before working out, it is an instant energizer!