But New York nutritionists Rachel Stahl and Danielle Starin, directors of nutrition at Nutritionix, the world’s biggest online nutrition database, say some foods can actually aid weight loss.
Below they narrow down eight of their favourites – and they taste amazing too!
1. Dark chocolate
Yep, this is not a typo – eating chocolate can help you lose weight, says the New York nutritionists. But as Danielle reminds us, “portion control is key”. She states that having 10-20 dark chocolate chips after a meal can help keep those sugar cravings at bay!
2. Apples
Two words, hunger suppressants. Why aren’t we eating more?! Apples are the perfect snack when you are hit with 3pm sugar cravings. Packed with antioxidants, fibre and water, apples provide a feeling of fullness with minimal calories.
3. Avocado
Now this is exciting – avocado lovers, rejoice! “This natural and healthy source of creaminess is a friend to the weight-conscious crowd,” says Danielle. Avocados are full of vitamins and minerals and good fats, which are important to aid weight loss, says Danielle. Top your toast with avocado and a squeeze of lime, blend it into your breakfast smoothies, or even use it in desserts, such as this chocolate avocado mousse.
4. Eggs
Yum! Our favourite breakfast staple. People tend to steer clear of eggs, often choosing only to eat the whites. But as Danielle says, “Don’t be afraid of the yolk,”! Eggs are packed with protein and healthy fats, which will keep you feeling fuller for longer – no more mid morning sugary snacks.
5. Quinoa
Quinoa… it’s quite the trend lately, and for good reason. It’s a brilliant source of protein and fibre, low in fat and gluten free but it’s also great at keeping hunger at bay. Replace white rice with Quinoa, use it in your salads or click here for a beautiful quinoa recipe.
6. Leafy Greens
From kale and spinach to chicory and chard, your leafy green options are endless. These are loaded with fibre, an important nutrient for weight loss, and remember the darker in colour, the better, says Danielle. Fill up your sandwiches with rocket, make kale and spinach smoothies, including this recipe.
7. Salmon
Salmon is a fabulous lean protein, which means it keeps you fuller for longer. It’s also such a versatile fish, so you won’t run out of beautiful recipes! It’s also packed with omega-3 fatty acids which are essential in fighting obesity and aiding weight loss. Click here for some salmon inspiration!
8. Oats
Replace sugary breakfast cereals with plain oats and notice the difference. The body actually digests oats quite slowly, which keeps you going all morning and keeps your appetite at bay. To give them a bit more taste while keeping it a healthy meal, top with natural yoghurt, nuts or fresh fruit. You can also blend them through smoothies or make granola bars for an on-the-go breakfast.
Click here to discover 7 MORE foods that will help you lose weight!
