Keep your resolutions with the help of these fat burning foods
As we enter the final month of winter, OUR moods and determination are typically at their lowest. The holiday season, and all of its guilty pleasures, are now well and truly behind us, which can often leave us feeling deflated. These winter blues can wreak havoc with our New Year’s resolutions, especially our weight loss goals.
If, like many, you are beginning to feel yourself returning to your unhealthy eating habits, try adding some of these fat burning foods into your diet. These top fat burning foods will increase your energy levels, boost your mood, help you burn more fat and improve your overall health – setting you on the path to victory in 2017.
Green Tea
The weight loss effects of green tea have been a topic of debate for the last few years. While some claim that the effects are minimal, studies have shown that the compound know as EGCG found within green tea temporarily speeds metabolism, helping the drinker burn some extra calories. It is advised that you drink at least 4 cups of green tea a day to benefit from the metabolism boosting effects of this brew.
Whole Grains
By simply switching your white bread, rice and pasta with a whole grain alternative you will feel satisfied for longer after each meal, reducing your daily calorie intake. In addition, when compared to their processed counterparts, our bodies can burn up to twice as many calories when breaking down whole foods.
Berries
In addition to being a healthy alternative to your usual sweet treats, berries are a great source of fibre. Studies have shown that increasing the amount of fibre in your diet can aid weight loss and help maintain a healthy body weight.
Experts recommend that women under the age of 50 should aim to consume 25 grams of fibre a day, while men should set out to consume as much as 38 grams. To help put this into perspective, one cup of raspberries contains around 6 grams of fibre.
Lean Meats
Protein rich foods such as lean meats and Greek yogurt keep you feeling satisfied for longer, helping to curb those late-night cravings. It is especially important to incorporate foods high in protein into your diet when you are living an active lifestyle, as protein also works to repair body tissues.
In addition, our bodies also burn more calories digesting protein than carbs or fats – so even if you have missed your weekly run, you can find comfort in the fact that your body is still working to burn those calories.
Beans
A great source of protein and fibre, beans should be seen as one of your best friends when you are looking to lose weight. Beans will help burn fat, aid digestion and keep you feeling full for longer.
Nuts
High in protein, fibre, and healthy fats, nuts are widely considered to be one the best snacks for a healthy diet. Evidence from a number of studies support the theory that nuts also help promote weight loss when eaten in moderation. Experts recommend that you should aim to consume 28 grams – around a handful – of nuts, every day.
