7 Surprise Foods That Promote Weight Loss

If you want to lose or keep off the excess weight, too much dieting or even starving yourself is not the answer. Strategic eating is, specifically, eating foods which help you lose weight and help pack some much needed nutrients. Here are 7 surprise foods which help you lose weight.

1. Okra is uncommon in some parts of the world, but when you find it in your grocery store, be sure to grab some. Also called ‘lady fingers’, this vegetable has 8.2 grams of fiber per cup. You can cook it with meats in a stew or slice it in half, sprinkle salt then pop it in the oven. It can be a healthy alternative to chips. If you are going to add it to soups and other dishes though, it takes a while to get used to their ‘slimy’ properties.
2. Pistachios. Pistachios pack a protein punch. They also have an ample amount of fiber. Plus, shelling them will make you lose some calories. Great as snacks, it’s difficult to overeat them since you have to shell them first. Pistachios can also be added to salads.
3. Avocados. There’s a reason why avocados are currently one of the more popular health foods. The fruit provides 20 essential nutrients which include vitamin e, potassium, b vitamins, folic acid and fiber. It also has monounsaturated fat, which is good for your heart. You can use avocados for salads, sandwiches, dessert or you can eat them just like any other fruit.
4. A cousin of Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and surprisingly cabbage, the asparagus can help you lose weight owing to its diuretic properties. You can eat asparagus as a side dish, salad, included in your dishes or even raw. The vegetable has lots of fiber and nutrients, as well. Just a reminder though some people experience smellier pee when they eat lots of asparagus.
5. Plain popcorn. If you have the craving for munchies like chips, you can go for a healthier alternative—popcorn. Plain popcorn has lots of fiber which helps you to become full and clean your digestive tract. Without the added chemicals and salt, plain popcorn can be a great snack. If you have a chance to pop them in a stove top rather than using microwave popcorn, take it. Microwave popcorn may have some trans-fat. If you don’t like it plain, add some spices like cayenne pepper and salt.
6. A drizzle of vinegar can help you improve insulin sensitivity and manage appetite says a research. Add it to grilled meats, fish and salads and you get a ton of flavor. Use infused vinegars if you need more. Apple cider vinegar and balsamic are good staples in your pantry. The drawback, however, is vinegar can be acidic if you add too much. So dial it back according to taste.
7. Squash and its variations and cousins like pumpkin, acorn and butternut have a high source of fiber, vitamin a and b. Research showed that eating squash can contribute to regulation blood sugar because of its insulin-regulating components. Most people puree squash and eat is as soup. This makes in more filling because of the liquid content. Be sure to use water or homemade broth so you can manage the salt and flavor. Squash can also be grilled or added to other dishes.