Top Weight Loss Foods + How to Use Them

Not all calories are created equal. Different foods can have different effects on your hunger, mood, and metabolism. There’s no secret trick to weight loss and no secret weight loss foods. However, some foods promote weight loss much better than others. I’m sharing some of my favorites below, along with a new healthy recipe that incorporates them to tie it all together.

Leafy greens

Leafy greens like kale, spinach, collards, and swiss chard make it to the very top of my list. They’re low in calories and carbohydrates which makes them easy to digest. Plus they’re high in fiber, so they add volume to your meals to keep you feeling satisfied for longer. Leafy greens are also very high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re definitely worthy of their superfood status.

Lean chicken breast

Chicken breasts are one of the most popular high protein foods. That’s important because protein is a very filling nutrient. Plus when you consume more protein, you can burn more calories in a day. But that’s not the only perk to protein. A high protein diet can also cut cravings so you snack less on the bad stuff.

Oatmeal

If you’re a cereal person, you’ll definitely appreciate this one. Although the calorie count in oatmeal is similar to that in many cold cereals, the health benefits are vastly different. Rolled oats have more protein, more fiber, and less sugar than cold, boxed cereal. You benefit from that by feeling fuller and less hungry throughout the morning. Make sure to skip the instant flavored packets and make yours with water.

Grapes

The reason I love grapes as one of my top weight loss foods isn’t for its nutritional value per say (though they do help decrease inflammation and blood pressure.) I think they’re great for weight loss is because their sweetness can ward off temptations to reach for unhealthy desserts. I recommend putting some in your freezer and grabbing a small handful when other sweet treats are calling your name.

Recipe of the month: oatmeal-crusted chicken

This oatmeal-crusted chicken recipe pairs nicely with any type of leafy green. I find my greens really tasty sauteed with red onion and garlic. A touch of extra virgin olive oil adds some healthy fat to your meal.

1 cup rolled oats
¾ cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
1 pound chicken breast tenders
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
Extra virgin olive oil

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Place oats in a food processor, and process for 20 seconds or until coarsely ground. Add cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pulse to combine and place in a shallow bowl. Using a meat mallet, pound each chicken breast to be about ¼-inch thick. Coat both sides of the chicken lightly in oil and the dredge tenders in oat mixture. Bake for 15 minutes or until browned.