30 Best Fat-Burning Foods To Lose Weight

Cabbage might seem like a boring pick, but there are so many things you can do with it while still getting all the health perks (like more fiber!). “The result is that you feel fuller longer, and your blood sugar is kept in check, which can be key for keeping tabs on appetite and cravings. “One large apple has 5 grams of fiber and 14% of your daily vitamin C—important for your immunity and for keeping weight off,” writes Mehmet Oz, M.D., in his book Food Can Fix It. Of course, you want to fill your plate with green veggies, but there are lots of other foods out there that can be beneficial for your waistline. This process can be helpful for weight loss and may also play a role in preventing gradual weight gain over time. Research suggests that blackberries may support the body’s ability to break down fat, making it available for energy. Researchers believe these plant compounds may help fight obesity, perhaps because of their role in gut health or their ability to promote fat breakdown. This process also supports gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria, which research suggests may play a role in weight regulation. Vegetables such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are low in calories but high in volume. Studies have shown that consuming eggs for breakfast can increase feelings of satiety and lead to a reduction in calorie intake later in the day. Eggs are nutrient-dense, high in protein, and filled with essential fatty acids. This means we are less likely to experience hunger pangs that lead to snacking on unhealthy options. What’s more, the researchers had people focus only on diet rather than increasing exercise to isolate out the effects of eating more healthfully. The cottage cheese is rich in protein, while almonds add crunch and healthy fats. And if you're trying to lose weight, preventing blood sugar spikes and staying full for longer is a game-changer. The best and worst foods for high blood pressure If you're concerned about your weight or have questions about your medications, talk with your health care provider. “People who consume olive oil as a regular part of their diet are less likely to develop cardiovascular disease, including stroke, high blood pressure. Sprinkle this delicious-smelling spice over your cereal and porridge, or add to hot drinks and smoothies, and repeat the health benefits.

The Benefits of Full-fat Yogurt

Sign up for free and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips, current health topics, and expertise on managing health. For example, people with diabetes should aim for more vegetables than fruits, if possible. If you have diabetes or any other health conditions or concerns, work with your doctor to adjust the Mayo Clinic Diet for your situation. However, this effect is lessened if you are losing weight. They're packed with choline, a nutrient that attacks fat storage in your liver. Eggs are one of the most versatile and affordable sources of high-quality protein. Losing weight doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor or going hungry. Intuitive eating is about listening to your body and making peace with food. Also, diet and lifestyle behavior change remain crucial even with GLP-1 medication to achieve and maintain a healthy weight and reduce health risks. Eating protein and/or fat together with dietary fiber before carbohydrate is most effective at enhancing GLP-1 secretion. That means your body can easily break down and absorb these nutrients. They’re also a highly digestible source of protein. Incomplete proteins lack one essential amino acid or more. This means they contain all the essential amino acids, which help your body build and repair muscle. Eggs are a complete protein.
  • Cucumbers are mostly made of water so they fill you up without loading you up with fat and calories.
  • Adding more high-protein foods to your diet doesn’t require tracking every gram of protein, or overhauling the way you eat.
  • This 1,500-calorie plan provides approximately 35% protein, 35% carbs, and 30% fat — optimal for weight loss while preserving muscle.
  • "This root is a superfood that is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory—one that has been used medicinally for thousands of years," explains Dr Borysenko.
  • Broth-based soups can be a very beneficial addition to your diet.
  • So, what can you do when you feel that pang to reach for food — not for hunger, but strictly for comfort?
  • To see quicker results, and get the most out of mealtime, make sure you triple up on these waist-whittling food combinations that fill you up, fight bloat, and help you burn fat.

How to maintain healthy hormones over the holidays

Try substituting your high-carb or sugar breakfast for eggs and see how much better you feel throughout the day. So if you want to make sure you’re still getting enough protein throughout the week, then enjoying fish like salmon or tilapia might be a great place to start. Some say that what you eat is a much bigger factor in losing weight than exercise.

Herbs And Spices Scientifically Proven To Help You Lose Weight

Build a better breakfast. Whole turkey breast and lean ground turkey (93% fat) are also versatile options. Oven-roasted turkey breast is a nutritious option for deli meat. That means it contains all nine essential amino acids that your body needs but can’t make on its own. They'll fill you up far faster, because they're packed with 6 grams of plant protein per serving, and they fuel your body with essential amino acids. While you may be tempted to skip the yolk and stick with egg whites to cut down on calories, the yolk is extremely nutrient-dense. Get creative with different herbs and spices whenever you can, as this will encourage you to cut back on high-sodium staples and avoid the salt shaker, a major player in weight gain.
  • I give an overview of these and other dietary factors in my Evidence-Based Weight Loss – Live Presentation.
  • It’s a great choice because it has more protein and less sugar than most other yogurts.
  • A diet that emphasizes plant-based whole foods tends to be packed with nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  • And then there is the reigning champion of weight loss drugs — GLP1 agonists including Saxenda (liraglutide) and Ozempic or Wegovy (semaglutide).
  • Everyone has different histamine tolerances, health needs, and food preferences.
  • This means consuming high-quality protein foods, such as lean meats.
  • The soluble fiber in fruit can help with short-term satiety; it also reacts with water in your gut to form a thick gel that helps delay and reduce the amount of sugar absorbed from that fruit.
  • Plus, this recipe uses coconut aminos, a coleslaw mix, and ground turkey, making this a lower-calorie meal than the O.G.
The program has been updated and is designed to help you reshape your lifestyle by adopting healthy new habits and breaking unhealthy old ones. The Mayo Clinic Diet is a long-term weight management program created by a team of weight-loss experts at Mayo Clinic. Our comments section is a place where readers can engage in healthy, productive, lively, and respectful discussions. “The goal isn’t to starve yourself—it’s to give your body the right signals.” Women generally need between 1,600 to 2,000 calories per day, depending on age, in order to maintain a healthy weight, per the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. A diet rich in whole foods and fibre is good for weight loss. These superfoods are rich in nutrients and healthy fats, helping to keep you satisfied and energized. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in fiber and low in calories, making them great for burning belly fat. Probiotics may help with weight gain by improving your digestive functions and helping you eat fewer unhealthy foods. You can add MCT oil to many foods and drinks. It may trim body fat and improve insulin resistance for folks with type 2 diabetes, but we need more research to know for sure. A keto diet that uses MCT instead of LCT may be easier for kids to stick to if they have trouble with the high amounts of fat. You may find it easier to stay on a keto diet that uses MCT because you can eat more carbohydrates, such as fruits and vegetables. Study after study shows that low carb works for weight loss and that on average it improves important health markers.10 Controversial topics related to a low-carb diet, and our take on them, include saturated fats, cholesterol, whole grains, red meat and whether the brain needs carbohydrates. If you reduce your hunger and the levels of hunger and fat-storing hormones you’ll likely have an easier time losing excess weight.2 Counting calories, exercising for hours every day and trying to ignore your hunger? The internet is full of articles lauding the use of vitamin B12 to prevent Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, and other chronic conditions or reverse infertility, fatigue, eczema, and a long list of other health problems. If left untreated, the deficiency can cause severe neurologic problems and blood diseases. It's a good idea to ask your doctor about having your B12 level checked if you are a strict vegetarian or have had weight-loss surgery or have a condition that interferes with the absorption of food. Some superfoods provide a lot of fiber which may increase feelings of satiety after a meal. This may make it much easier for you to achieve the all-important calorie deficit that is essential for weight loss. Secondly, superfoods tend to be low-calorie foods in the first place so you don’t have to worry about your waistline when consuming them. Garlic – Enhances flavor without adding calories. Watermelon – Hydrating with fewer calories. Beets – Support blood pressure and provide fiber. Berries (all types) – High in fiber and low in sugar. Sardines – Fatty acids and protein-packed for long term health. Complete Exercise Guide for Weight Loss: Evidence-Based Strategies for 2026 Roots Nutrition provides natural, expertly crafted products to support your health journey. A practical wellness guide built around seasonal food, movement, rest, and personalized support for steady fall energy and immunity. Practical strategies to support digestion, immune balance, and steady energy through a personalized fall cleanse and detox diet. Discover how our natural supplements can support optimal digestion, detoxification, and vitality—empowering you to achieve your health goals. Founded by Dr. Romeo Brooks, a pioneer in holistic health, Roots Nutrition combines decades of expertise in natural healing with scientifically-backed solutions. Managing healthcare
What makes a balanced diet?
Plus, some studies suggest that drinking water may be helpful for weight loss.36 Add a squeeze of lemon or lime, if you like. Just be sure to read labels and avoid low-fat yogurt with added sugar and starch. So when it comes to maximizing satiety per calorie, low-fat dairy wins.
Track your meals
Avoid doses that exceed 121 milligrams per kilogram (or 2.2 pounds) of your body weight. It can also interfere with some treatments for cancer and medications that slow down blood clotting. They may also want to adjust your blood sugar medication. If you have high blood pressure or if you think caffeine affects your blood pressure, think about cutting down. But caffeine can cause blood pressure to rise at least briefly. How caffeine affects blood pressure isn't clear. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that men limit alcohol to no more than two drinks a day and women to one or less. Drinking too much alcohol can increase blood pressure. Your body digests oats slowly. Whole-grain oats are one of the healthiest sources of complex carbohydrates. Carbs are also crucial to eat postworkout to refill lost muscle glycogen and jump-start recovery.
  • Some may be able to reliably remain in ketosis even at higher carb intake levels.
  • These options provide sustained energy without spiking blood sugar.
  • These heart-healthy fats are much better for you than the saturated fats found in many animal protein sources.
  • For people who have serious health problems linked to weight, a doctor might suggest surgery or medicines to help with weight loss.
  • Although not as high as other food elements, cruciferous vegetables can still provide you with a decent protein quantity that is not typical for other vegetables.
  • Yup, that's the humble spud on the list of best foods for weight loss.
  • GuideHigh protein, low-carb snacks keep you fuller longer.
In addition, though extensive research exists on the use of the ketogenic diet for other medical conditions, only studies that examined ketogenic diets specific to obesity or overweight were included in this list. Programs suggest following a ketogenic diet until the desired amount of weight is lost. However, these calculations are not an exact or reliable science because the effect of sugar alcohols on absorption and blood sugar can vary. The ketogenic diet typically reduces total carbohydrate intake to less than 50 grams a day—less than the amount found in a medium plain bagel—and can be as low as 20 grams a day. During fasting, or when very little carbohydrate is eaten, the body first pulls stored glucose from the liver and temporarily breaks down muscle to release glucose. Selecting lean proteins like salmon, rather than high-fat proteins, is a habit often seen in adults managing their weight well. Broccoli adds bulk to a meal to appear like more food and possibly slow down our eating pace.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e Oats contain an impressive four grams of fiber per serving, with half of those grams as soluble fiber to improve satiety to further weight loss. This increases fiber intake towards keeping you full and offsetting overeating. Pistachios have a more desirable nutritional makeup than many other nuts, coming in at 160 calories, four grams of total fat, and just 1.5 grams of saturated fat per serving.
  • While eggs are generally considered healthy, the yolks are high in cholesterol.
  • It’s high in protein, especially casein, and low in calorie density.
  • There is evidence that following a low-GI diet, that accomplishes a significant reduction in GI, may be moderately effective in lowering body weight.
  • According to major health service providers, this is the first step.
  • More and more research is suggesting that an unhealthy microbiota favor weight gain,” says Iafelice.
  • Indeed science agrees, with one study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finding that a research group who added whole grains to their diet lost more body fat than those who continued eating refined grains.
  • Olive Oil – A staple in healthy eating and the Mediterranean diet, rich in unsaturated fats.
Shrimp, which are mostly pure protein and high in selenium, are another great option for centering your meals around. Pasture-raised organic chicken breast is another great protein option. "Grass-fed filet is very high in protein, which can help your body build and repair muscle tissues," says Maitland. Apple cider vinegar can also help with weight loss, per Maitland. Organic grass-fed cottage cheese is "super high in protein and a very versatile food," Maitland says.
  • Tuna is another low-calorie, high-protein fish.
  • What are your reasons for wanting to lose weight and for sticking to the plan?
  • Flavored yogurts typically have a lot of added sugar.
  • The science behind intermittent fasting is based on altering the body's metabolism.
  • The right foods can help you lower your cholesterol.
  • If I want to lose weight, is it better to eat less or be more active?
  • Eating smart means eating fat-burning foods that help you lose weight faster.
  • Following a very high-fat diet may be challenging to maintain.
A nutritionist’s view:
"Green tea boosts metabolism when you're resting and specifically targets the release of stored fat," Lori Shemek, PhD, tells TODAY. "Some types of shellfish, such as mussels, oysters, squid and crab, are also good sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, but they do not contain as much as oily fish." "Shellfish are low in fat and a source of selenium, zinc, iodine and copper," says the NHS. "Research suggests the more hydrated you are, the better able your body is at just about everything from thinking to making exercise easier." "Eggs have been shown to suppress appetite and decrease plasma ghrelin levels. Ghrelin is a hormone responsible for appetite stimulation." For a long time, doctors thought spicy food was a major cause of ulcers. If you’re prone to ulcers or have one now, it’s best to limit alcohol or avoid it altogether. Today we know milk can’t help prevent or relieve an ulcer. If a hectic day makes a sit-down meal impossible, stash a piece of fruit and pack of nut butter in your car or purse and keep snacks in your desk drawer — anything that will keep you from going hungry! Start tracking on a calorie-counting app like MyFitnessPal or use a regular notebook. The habit also takes less than 15 minutes per day on average when you do it regularly, according to a study published in the journal Obesity. Chronic sleep deprivation may even alter hormones that control hunger, and some studies show that there is a connection between poor quality food choices and less sleep. The protein and healthy fats in salmon help keep you satisfied and nourished, making it an excellent pick for weight loss foods. Adding these healthy foods to your regular eating plan can promote weight loss and make it easier to maintain a healthy weight in the long term. Eating smart means eating fat-burning foods that help you lose weight faster. So if you want to lose weight, or maintain a healthy weight, without compromising your long-term health, what are the top weight loss-friendly foods to enjoy? According to a 2010 study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, people who ate three or more servings of whole grains per day were observed to have 10% less belly fat than those who didn’t eat any whole grains. One of the highest-fiber foods you can get, artichokes are a superstar veggie that fits into most diet plans. A 2009 study published in Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases found that folks with overweight and obesity who ate cod five times a week lost nearly four more pounds in two months than people who didn’t eat seafood. Below, you’ll find the best foods for weight loss to include in your weekly meal plan on the regular. Soup supports weight loss because it’s usually low in calorie count, yet satiating. Your body needs a certain amount of essential vitamins and minerals to function properly. And for those of you on a strict keto diet, know that the most harmless ones carb-wise are macadamia nuts (usually around 5% carbs), or Brazil nuts (4%). When it comes to butter, you don’t need to worry about extra carbs, as butter is almost pure fat. The high fiber content helps you feel fuller for longer periods, reducing the likelihood of overeating later in the day. Pulses, including beans, lentils, and chickpeas, are fantastic foods for weight loss and weight management. These vegetables are rich in fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Whether you’re looking to prevent the dreaded “yo-yo effect” or simply want to enjoy a healthier lifestyle, these foods are sure to become staples in your diet. Additionally, obese persons who ate kimchi for four weeks showed significant reductions in body fat, BMI, and blood sugar levels (124). It’s rich in protein and other nutrients, ideal for a health-centered diet and losing weight (104, 105). Like most protein-rich foods, whey protein promotes satiety which helps you to eat less. Add nuts like pistachios, walnuts, pecans and almonds to salads or eat a handful as a snack. Research shows that extra virgin olive oil can improve your cardiovascular health. Options like chickpeas, black beans, lentils and kidney beans are great replacements for red meat or poultry if you’re looking for a meatless meal. Those are OK to eat in moderation, but they don’t provide the same nutritional value as whole grains. Consistent intake over several weeks, along with proper exercise and calorie control, is typically required to notice changes in body composition. Protein requires more energy to digest than carbohydrates or fats, while compounds like caffeine and capsaicin can temporarily increase calorie burn. Their effects are modest and work best as part of a calorie-controlled diet, strength training and adequate sleep. Whether you prefer peanut butter or almond butter, the healthy fats and protein in nut butters will help keep you full, says Kimberlain. The healthy fats also score a win for keto dieters. Avocados are full of healthy plant-based fats and protein, which both help keep you fuller longer, says Amy Kimberlain, RDN, a Miami-based nutritionist and certified diabetes care and education specialist.

MCT Oil vs. Coconut Oil

  • Yes, paneer is an excellent choice for weight loss as it contains high protein and low carbohydrate.
  • If you’re on a very low-carb diet, you’ll want to avoid grains, which are high in carbs.
  • This means eating from multiple food groups to ensure your body gets a variety of nutrients.
  • There’s a reason this tart citrus fruit was part of a popular fad diet; it’s rich in phytochemicals, which can help in adiponectin production and help the body with fat breakdown.
  • For faster results, you’ll need to work with a doctor to make sure that you stay healthy and get the nutrients that you need.
  • Protein is essential to good health.
  • Best of all, quinoa provides a filling and nutrient-rich alternative to refined carbohydrates like white pasta.
This high fiber content classifies chia seeds as low-carb-friendly and places them among the top fiber-rich foods globally. They are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients that slow blood sugar spikes after meals. Even with natural sugars present, fruits are low in calories and require time to eat. Incorporating this into your diet can be a game-changer for those looking to lose weight.
  • So ask your family and friends to support your efforts to lose weight.
  • Inulin-type fructans, found in Jerusalem artichokes, can possibly help people feel more satiated and have a reduced desire to eat sweet, salty, and fatty foods, per a 2019 study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
  • Leafy greens pair perfectly with eggs (another superfood for weight loss!) in these Sweet Potato and Spinach Egg Muffins.
  • However, it’s essential to understand that not all fats are alike.
  • Early detection and treatment is important.
  • People who have weight-loss surgery are also more likely to be low in vitamin B12 because the operation interferes with the body's ability to extract vitamin B12 from food.
  • They're also low in calories and help keep your blood sugar steady.
  • It’s a great way to get fibre, protein, and vitamins without the risk of overeating.
Also, look out for pumpkin seeds; they are packed with zinc, which is important for helping the body burn fat. Nuts are a great snack and just a handful a day is enough to deliver plenty of nutritional benefits. If you struggle to meet your protein target through your meals, reap the benefits of protein powder every day by making a shake with one of the best protein powders. "It also reduces levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin and boosts levels of Peptide YY (PYY), a protein that tells you when you are full." “Cabbage is believed to promote weight loss by balancing glucose, limiting oxidative stress, inflammation, and resistance to insulin seen with diabetes.” Their high protein content helps increase feelings of fullness, reduce appetite, and support muscle maintenance during weight loss. The fibre content aids in digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and stabilises blood sugar levels, preventing sudden spikes that can lead to cravings To keep track of calories, you can use a food calorie calculator, which helps counties. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for overall well-being, as it enhances physical appearance and plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of various chronic diseases. Moreover, lean proteins like chicken, fish, and legumes have a high thermic effect, meaning they burn more calories during digestion. The Mayo Clinic Diet is based on the latest behavior-change science, which will help you find your inner motivation to lose weight, set achievable goals and learn to handle setbacks. The goal is to make simple, pleasurable changes that will result in a healthy weight that you can maintain for the rest of your life. “It plays a key role in promoting optimal metabolic health and enhancing your body’s ability to burn fat.” Cruciferous vegetables are good sources of fiber, which further supports blood sugar balance and helps you feel fuller longer. Protein that’s found in foods like lean meat and Greek yogurt helps maintain muscle, which is where most insulin activity takes place. They also contain more fiber so they may be more beneficial to eat for people who are trying to slim down. According to Cedars-SInai, avocados are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats which can actually help lower your LDL cholesterol levels. Fiber, found in foods like berries, chia seeds, and leafy greens, is essential for weight management. I have worked as a nutritionist for many years and learned that some foods, known as 'superfoods,' can significantly aid in weight control. Most people can begin with five- or 10-minute activity sessions and increase the time gradually. If you've been inactive or you have a medical condition, talk to your doctor or health care provider before starting a new physical activity program. It also emphasizes moving more throughout the day, such as taking the stairs instead of an elevator. It provides an exercise plan with easy-to-follow walking and resistance exercises that will help maximize fat loss and boost mental well-being. The Mayo Clinic Diet provides practical and realistic ideas for including more physical activity and exercise throughout your day — as well as finding a plan that works for you. “This, in turn, promotes satiety, slows down digestion, and improves blood sugar level,” says Brooking, echoing the 2017 aforementioned study in Annals of Internal Medicine. Sweet potatoes are loaded with dietary fiber—one sweet orange tater has nearly 4 grams of fiber, or 14% of your DV. Just make sure to skip the butter when you’re cooking cod to avoid adding too many calories to your meal. Similarly, while 100% fruit juice provides beneficial nutrients, it lacks fiber and can be easy to overdrink. But their potential benefits for weight management go beyond just keeping you full. Blackberries are packed with fiber, which helps promote satiety and keep hunger in check. Participants who consumed pineapple saw their melatonin levels triple within two hours. Even fatty fruits like avocado and olives – often grouped with vegetables because they’re not sweet – have fairly low calorie densities due to their fiber and water content. So, you can eat a large amount of fruit for relatively few calories. The best beverages for losing weight have zero (or nearly zero) calories. The answer will depend on the type of diet you eat and your food preferences. Therefore, compared to milk, they are lower in carbs and get more of their calories from protein.
What do you eat?
Celebrities like Victoria Beckman and Tom Brady helped make the diet popular. Eat a variety of whole grains (like whole-wheat bread, whole-grain pasta, and brown rice). Choose fish, poultry, beans, and nuts; limit red meat and cheese; avoid bacon, cold cuts, and other processed meats. The more veggies — and the greater the variety — the better. Limit milk/dairy (1-2 servings/day) and juice (1 small glass/day). Moist, flavorful salmon should be the centerpiece of any weight-loss plan. Chopped walnuts can be folded into ground meat dishes, and they are great to use for added texture and crunch in baked goods. Enjoy walnuts on their own or add them to grain dishes like quinoa, wheat berries or couscous. The easiest way to decrease your calories and increase your nutrition intake is by choosing more nutrient-dense foods. Nobody has ever gotten fat from eating one donut and nobody has ever gotten a six pack from eating one salad. Contrary to what you’ve read on the internet, a single food cannot increase your metabolism, help you burn more fat, or prevent weight gain outside of calorie control. Here’s your go-to guide for finding the best weight loss foods to stack your plate with. The truth is, there is no single food that will make or break your weight loss goals, your health is a reflection of all of your food choices and habits throughout your lifetime, not a single moment in time. The benefit of adding protein powders is that they will boost your protein intake and keep you feeling full for an extended period. Prepare the Beefless ground beef in advance and refrigerate it for two days. For a meatless meal, crumbs of extra-firm tofu make a perfect substitute for ground beef. They can be considered healthier alternatives to breakfast sausage. You can make a delicious breakfast sandwich that's much lower in carbs than traditional wheat English muffins with riced cauliflower as a substitute for wheat English muffins. Chowing down on nutrient-dense, fat-burning foods and drinks can help you drop pounds and also improve your health in many ways. “It should be evident, but you cannot just burn fat and shed weight by simply eating these fruits alone.” Although the average banana contains 27 grams of carbohydrates, this fruit can help stop weight gain, because it has only 105 calories and 3 grams of filling fiber. “I would never suggest that someone who doesn’t like apples should eat apples because it will help you lose weight,”  Lander-Canseco says. But remember, no one fruit or diet decision alone can make you lose weight.