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Monday, April 26, 2010


How many weight-loss strategies have you heard? I've heard of a TON, and I'm sure you have too. To me, weight loss is all about food, exercise and stress management. Until you get those factors in order, you are likely to have trouble losing weight. As far as food goes, there is no perfect diet that will work for everyone. Focus on eating natural whole foods like these top 7 and you’re on your way to success. Don’t forget about exercise and stress reduction!

  1. Apples – One of my favorite fruits to snack on. Since they’re crunchy and full of fiber, I can eat an apple and feel pretty full. Cutting an apple into slices makes it more appealing to eat. Try dipping it in natural peanut butter, or almond butter. Delicious. Snacks with low calories and fiber are a great way to keep you from snacking on bad stuff in between meals.
  2. Hot Peppers - Adding hot peppers to your meals is a rewarding weight loss technique. Studies show that hot peppers help curb your appetite and can also speed up your metabolism. They also help keep you from overeating during a meal. Try adding them to salsas, stir-fries, omelets, and salads. (This one is definitely not for me - pepper is too spicy for me at times!)
  3. Whole Grains – Preparing whole grains with your meals can be extremely helpful for weight loss. Try whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, and buckwheat to make your meals super filling without any guilt. Your body is actually more satisfied after eating whole grains than it is after eating processed bread or cereal (not really whole grains). Each bite takes longer to chew and your body gets more nutrition out of the whole grains. This means less cravings and more weight loss.
  4. Almonds – Handfuls of nuts such as almonds are another favorite snack of mine. I particularly love raw almonds for weight loss because they take longer to chew (since they are so crunchy). Almond milk is good too! Try it in smoothies, milkshakes, or with your morning tea. Try eating a small amount of healthy fat ten minutes prior to your meals (such as a handful of almonds). The healthy fat “helps activate ghrelin, a hormone that lets you know you’re full.”
  5. Water – I included water in my list of “foods” because when you’re trying to lose weight, it’s smart to consider water a food. It nourishes your body and you can use it to avoid feelings of hunger throughout the day. Many people walk around dehydrated on a daily basis. Anytime you feel hungry, try drinking a glass of water before you start eating. It will help you consume less calories.
  6. Root Vegetables – Veggies like carrots, onions, sweet potatoes, etc. are also surprisingly helpful for losing weight. Root vegetables are naturally sweet and are therefore a big help in reducing cravings for sugar They’re high in fiber and are guaranteed to keep you satisfied. Season with fresh herbs and a tiny drizzle of olive oil for flavor.
  7. Greens – Last but not least, greens are the most important food that most people forget to eat. First off, green vegetables such as kale, broccoli, and spinach and superfoods. Greens are alkaline foods that help balance the acidic environment inside our bodies caused by poor diet.

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