A Guide to the Best Foods to Eat for Weight Loss

Most of us can discern between typically healthy and unhealthy fare, but which foods are the most effective for weight loss? Some healthy foods are high in calories, while plenty of unhealthy foods are relatively low in calories, making it quite a challenge to know what to eat.

The trick to shedding a few pounds is to strike a balance between low-calorie and nutrient-dense foods. Without digging a little deeper into the nutritional value of our foods, this isn't so easy.

We understand how confusing and stressful this can be, which is why we've created this handy guide to the most effective weight-loss foods!

Eggs

A superfood in its own right, it's no surprise to find out that eggs are an excellent addition to any food plan, and that goes for the weight loss kind, too.

High in protein and healthy fats, eggs help keep you full for longer and prevent you from snacking between meals. Even with its lengthy list of nutrients, eggs remain surprisingly low in calories. Medium-sized eggs usually have less than 70 calories, and eating some a few times a week is proven to contribute to weight loss.

Lean Protein

Protein isn't just important for muscle repair, bone strength, and your immune system; it also keeps you satiated after a meal. Meat is typically high in protein, but it's best to stick to leaner cuts if you're trying to slim down.

Chicken, turkey, fish, and low-fat beef will be your go-to meats for weight loss. All of these are fantastic sources of protein, but opting for chicken or turkey breast and fish like cod or sole will also help you reduce your calorie intake.

Beans and Legumes

If you prefer plant-based proteins, swapping meat for beans and legumes is the way to go. Soybeans, white beans, lentils, and chickpeas are packed full of protein and also boast a high fiber content. These two nutrients are crucial for feeling fulfilled after a meal.

Better still, these aren't all beans and legumes have to offer. Both are bursting with antioxidants and gut-friendly components and are even known to help fight off cholesterol and heart disease.

Nuts

Provided you're vigilant about your portion sizes, nuts make for a healthy, nutritious treat. Not only are they a source of protein, but nuts are also brimming with healthy fats and fiber. Because of this, nuts tend to be more filling than other snacks like potato chips and baked goods.

The exact composition of each type of nut varies, but there are a few things to keep in mind when picking a specific kind. Cashews have fewer calories than most, peanuts offer the most protein, and almonds are the best choice for fiber.

Greek Yogurt

Yogurts aren't generally the first type of food that springs to mind when we think of weight loss. However, opting for the Greek variety can be a great way to include some extra protein in your diet.

Greek yogurt has almost twice as much protein as its regular counterpart and is often lower in sugar. Because it's not especially sweet, you may not find it as enjoyable on its own as normal yogurt, but it pairs well with fruits or a dash of honey.

Potatoes

After years of vilification, potatoes are finally beginning to get some credit for their weight-loss-friendly properties and nutrient profile.

Many people stick with sweet potatoes thanks to their abundance of vitamins and minerals, but white potatoes are actually lower in calories. Both are ideal for weight loss, with white potatoes having less sugar and carbohydrates and their sweeter alternatives containing more calcium and fiber.

Fruit

Fruits are a staple in any healthy diet, regardless of whether weight loss is the goal. They are teeming with a plethora of key micronutrients and an easy way to ensure you get sufficient fiber.

While there are no such things as good or bad fruits, some are more suited to weight reduction than others. For the best results, stock up on fruits with low calories and high fiber, such as apples, grapefruit, kiwis, and passion fruit. Mangoes, grapes, and cherries get a bad rap for their sugar content but are still healthy fruits when enjoyed in moderation.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, making them brilliant for weight loss. They're also super easy to incorporate into your diet, working well with everything from smoothies to oatmeal.

The benefits of chia seeds don't stop there. Each serving provides plenty of protein and healthy fats. Flaxseeds, hemp seeds, and sunflower seeds are also packed with nutrients, but chia seeds have fewer calories and less fat.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Even if you're not trying to lose weight, the health benefits associated with cruciferous vegetables are reason enough to add them to your meals.

Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, and Brussels sprouts, all of which are rich in vitamins, folate, and omega-3. In addition to these nutrients, these veggies are remarkably low in calories and filled with fiber. 

Dark Chocolate

You don't have to ditch the treats entirely when you're trying to lose a few pounds. In fact, eliminating all your favorite confections may make a healthy eating plan pretty tough to follow.

Dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao is perfect for weight loss. Enjoying a few squares a couple of times a week will curb your cravings, allowing you to stay on track without depriving yourself of something sweet. What's more, dark chocolate can also help with blood pressure, inflammation, and cholesterol levels and is also a wonderful source of antioxidants.

Kickstart Your Weight Loss Journey With These Waistline-Friendly Foods

With any luck, this guide has given you an insight into how to make simple changes in your diet to achieve your desired weight-loss results.

By including a handful of these nourishing foods in your diet, you can ensure that you lose weight in a healthy, safe, and sustainable way.