Top Weight Loss-Friendly Foods

Certain foods are healthier and more nutrient-rich than others and different foods can have varying effects on your body. Here are some weight loss-friendly foods.

Apples
Pectin, a naturally occurring substance found in apples, limits the amount of fat our adipose cells, naturally controlling the buildup of fat in the body and making apples an excellent weight loss snack. One medium-sized apple is about 85% water and about 4 grams of fiber. Water-rich foods often lead to reduced calorie intake and fiber makes you feel fuller with fewer calories. Eat apples out of hand or prepare nutritious applesauce by blending apples with dates and a pinch of cinnamon.

Eggs
Choline, an essential nutrient found in egg yolks, improves liver function, brain development, and muscle control. High in protein and healthy fats, eggs also help make you feel full without many calories. Eat an egg before or after workouts, as they’re an excellent source to help refuel, repair and rebuild muscles. Scramble eggs with veggies for breakfast, enjoy on top of avocado toast or eat hard-cooked eggs for a snack.

Artichokes
Artichokes rank seventh on the USDA’s top 20 antioxidant-rich foods list. This antioxidant-rich vegetable is high in fiber and low in fat, making artichokes an ideal weight loss food. They’re also a good source of folate, dietary fiber and vitamins C and K. Enjoy artichokes in a roasted vegetable stir-fry, in a sauce for meat entrées or in a fresh artichoke and kale dip.

Leafy Greens
Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, collard greens and Swiss chard have many nutritious properties that make them ideal for a weight loss diet. These greens are loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that aid in burning fat. They’re also low in calories and carbohydrates and high in fiber, promoting the feeling of satiety.

Greek yogurt
Low in carbs and calories and high in protein, Greek yogurt helps burn fat and promotes weight loss. Yogurt also contains probiotic bacteria that improve the function of your gut, enhancing overall digestive health. Add Greek yogurt to a breakfast bowl, use it to create a healthy, creamy pasta sauce or replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt in a creamy egg or chicken salad.