We all need to eat, and we might as well burn calories while we’re eating. Check out these 12 super foods and add them to your grocery cart.
1. Grapefruit
Why? Vitamin C helps with fat metabolism. Eat half a grapefruit for breakfast and/or 30 minutes before meals. Grapefruit will help you feel full and prevent overeating.
2. Black Pepper
Why? Black pepper speeds up your metabolism. Piperine, found in black pepper, has been shown to to reduce the formation of fat cells. So, grab for the black pepper instead of salt to add some spice to your next meal.
3. Cinnamon
Why? Cinnamon lowers blood sugar and suppresses your appetite. Add to your tea, coffee, desserts, yogurt, etc. Use Ceylon cinnamon, not Cassia cinnamon.
4. Eggs
Why? No surprise here. Eggs are low in calories and have 7 grams of protein—enough to fill you up for the day.
5. Apples (in fact, all fruits)
Why? Another no surprise. Fruit satisfies your sweet tooth. Eat fruit with the skin when you can for the added benefit of fiber and water.
6. Green Tea
Why? I wrote about the benefits of green tea in a blog post a few weeks ago. Drink hot tea with honey and lemon. The phytochemical catechins (yes, really!) speeds your metabolism.
7. Blueberries
Why? Blueberries are high in antioxidants and insoluble fiber. And they only have 40 calories per half cup.
8. Almonds
Why? One serving (23 almonds) is loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. And they’ll help you stay full.
9. Chilies
Why? Yes, they’re hot, but they contain capsaicin, an appetite suppressant.
10. Coffee
Why? Just shout hurray! The caffeine in coffee speeds up your metabolism. Limit intake to 1-3 cups a day.
11. Quinoa
Why? Quinoa is high in fiber and protein. And yes, you guessed it, this makes you feel full. Plus, the low glycemic index won’t raise your blood sugar.
12. Vegetables
Why? Well, because vegetables should probably be listed first, not last. Vegetables are low in calories, highly nutritious and full of fiber. Eat at least 2-3 cups per day.
Can you add any super foods to add to this list? Please comment below.
Other foods worth more than a mention include sweet potatoes, oatmeal, Greek yogurt, watermelon, lean meats, and beans.
An excellent list! Thanks.