Now that summer is here and bikinis are in the air, people are looking for that quick fix to have a sexy tummy like the fitness cover models. Hate to break it to you, but there is no quick fix! Healthy is a lifestyle. Working out and eating clean go hand in hand to get the results you want. Below are some foods you should keep around to help get you to your weight loss goals.
Lemon Water
Blueberries
– These little guys are full of anti oxidants and pack important vitamins vital for your health. Not to mention they also contribute to you daily fiber intake. Fiber helps keep you regular and do away with bloat. 1 cup of blueberries contains 3.6 grams of dietary fiber and they are very low in fat. These guys can be great as a stand-alone snack or you can add them to your pancakes, oatmeal, or cereal.
Low Fat Plain Greek Yogurt
– Greek yogurt is full of probiotics, otherwise known as healthy bacteria. You heard that correctly, there is such a think as “healthy” bacteria. Not only does it help keep your gut healthy, but also it is low in fat and high in protein. Try this out for a healthy breakfast or snack option:
Healthy Protein Parfait –
- First Layer: 1 cup low fat plain Greek yogurt
- Second Layer: ½ cup blueberries
- Third Layer: ¼ cup shredded almonds
- Fourth Layer: ¼ cup granola
Oatmeal
– This is such a healthy and delicious breakfast option. Having oatmeal for breakfast can help keep you fuller longer. Try to stay away from the pre packaged versions as they can be filled with unwanted sugars. Get creative with your protein! Try adding 1 scoop of chocolate whey protein and 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter. Yum.
Red Grapes
– These crunchy and juicy guys contain antioxidants that can help with high blood pressure and blood clots. Red grapes are higher in antioxidants than green grapes. If you are looking for a sweet treat, try freezing your grapes. Try adding these guys into your afternoon snack regimen.
Eggs
– People give eggs a bad rap. Too much of anything can be bad for you. These guys are full of vitamin D and protein. To cut down on some of the fat, try mixing one whole egg with 4 egg whites.
Green Tea
– If lemon water doesn’t do it for you in the mornings, give this guy a try. Green tea is rich in antioxidants and also contains an ingredient called EGCG, which can help aid in weight loss.
These are just a few of the foods that can kick start your weight loss plan. Here are a few extra tips to help you stay on track:
- Keep your refrigerator stocked with lots of fresh fruits and veggies. The greener the veggies, the better!
- Lean proteins are your friends. Make sure there is a protein included in all of your meals. These guys are low in fat and carbohydrates and help fuel your body and feed your muscles.
- Spice up your life! Weight loss doesn’t have to be bland. Feel free to add some spices and seasonings to flavor your foods. Ms. Dash seasoning has great flavor options and is low in sodium.
- Drink Up! I cannot express how extremely important it is to stay hydrated. The human body is made up of over 60% water. When you sleep, walk, speak, train; you are losing water. Make sure to replenish yourself and then some.
- Eat More Often. Instead of eating three meals a day, try changing it up. By eating 5-6 small meals a day, you will stay fuller longer. This will also keep you from unnecessary snacking. Don’t forget to include protein in each meal!
- Stay away from soda and empty calories.
- No more late night snacking. Try not to eat right before you go to sleep. Your body needs time to break down the food it just ate. If you absolutely need something to keep your stomach from rumbling, try a whey protein shake with non-fat milk or just water.
- Eat when you are hungry. There is a difference between being hungry and bored. Try timing out your meals so your body will get used to a routine and get hungry around the same time each day. Pack 5-6 small meals and try to eat every 2-3 hours.
