This isn’t a diet, nor a fad, it’s a lifestyle. The key to sliming down permanently is simply making healthy eating a lifestyle—with every food decision. The below foods are known to rev your metabolism and whittle your waist even more while leaving you looking and feeling better than ever. All the recipes on nourished.ca are slimming foods
- Watermelon: A recent study showed that women who ate water-rich foods lost 33% more weight in the first 6 months than women on a low-fat diet. Watermelon also contains vitamins A and C, as well as the “mother of all antioxidants,” glutathione, which is known to help strengthen the immune system.
- Lentils: Protein-rich and loaded with fiber, these legumes will help you stay fuller for longer. One cup provides about three-quarters of your daily recommendation of fiber.
- Cinnamon: This delicious spice slows the passage of food through your stomach. It also lowers your blood sugar levels by stimulating glucose metabolism.
- Pumpkin Seeds: High in omega-3 fatty acids, these seeds have been shown to decrease the body’s ability to store fat. They’re also high in protein and magnesium which helps curb cravings and strengthen muscles.
- Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are super high in soluble fiber which, in addition to filling you up, has cholesterol-lowering properties and prevents the absorption of fat. Loaded in Omega 3’s, iron, protein, this tiny seeds pack a big nutritional punch. Add them to smoothies, salads, baking.
- Apples: Apples’ soluble fiber, pectin, reduces the amount of sugar and calories that is absorbed into the bloodstream. That’s good news for those trying to prevent type 2 diabetes, but it also makes apples one of the best snacks. Apple pectin prevents spikes in blood sugar that lead to increased fat storage. It will help you avoid the blood sugar “crash” that leaves you craving more food and can keep you satiated for up to two hours.
- Avocados: The monounsaturated fats in avocados actually keep us full longer, speed up metabolism and the creamy consistency keeps us satiated. MUFAS are healthy sources of energy to keep you going all day long.
- Chili Peppers: Capsaicin, the compound that gives these spicy peppers their zing, also curbs your appetite while you eat. Not only that, it raises your body temperature, which may boost your metabolism. I like to keep red pepper flakes or cayenne on the table.
- Raw, Unfiltered, Unpasteurized Apple Cider Vinegar: Vinegar slows the absorption of carbohydrates and prevents sudden surges in your blood sugar. It also slows the passage of food through your stomach, keeping you fuller longer. I take a tablespoon every night.