Fat-Burning Foods

Did you know there are foods that can help you burn fat? The secret is to eat foods that take a lot of energy to digest. That way, more of the food’s calories are used in digesting it and you don’t have to “work off” all the calories. Here is a partial list of some of the better-known fat-burning foods.

1. Low-Fat dairy products

Foods like low-fat yogurt (without added sugar), reduced-fat cheese, and skim milk are reputed to help you burn fat. Studies have shown that those who eat low-fat dairy products not only tend to lose weight, but they also tend not to gain weight over time. So low-fat dairy products may be helpful in preventing weight gain, too.

2. Eggs

Thank goodness eggs are getting over their reputation as an unhealthy, cholesterol-producing food. They are high protein, and high-protein foods take a lot of energy (i.e. calories) to digest. Eggs also contain important vitamins, such as B12 and Vitamin E, that can help with weight loss.

3. Turkey

Some even tout turkey as a superfood these days. Whether you agree with that or not, turkey is a healthy, high-protein, low-fat food that takes energy to digest. Note, though, that you need to eat lean, natural turkey and not processed deli turkey or turkey that has been injected with saline or broth.

4. Salmon

This fatty fish has gotten a reputation as a heart-healthy food, and for good reason. It’s also very high in protein, and the healthy fats along with the protein combine to make a food that takes a lot of energy to digest.

5. Beans

All beans are considered healthy, but sources say that white, lima, kidney and navy beans are the best for fat burning. High in fiber, vitamins and protein, beans are another one of those foods that use energy. You can make them into healthy dips like hummus, or mash them with powdered taco seasoning and use them with nachos. Of course, you can also eat them cooked over a bed of brown rice, adding even more protein and fiber.

6. Oatmeal

If you sweeten your oatmeal with a little raw honey or stevia and fruit, it becomes a low-calorie, fat-burning breakfast. Oatmeal has lots of fiber and takes pretty many calories to digest.

7. Whole grains

Thinking beyond bread, whole grains can be a great way to boost your metabolism and add that important fiber. Cooked whole grains can be used in many interesting recipes, such as millet, brown rice, and quinoa. They can be cooked into stews and casseroles. They are complex carbohydrates, so don’t let the low-carb craze prevent you from eating these healthy whole foods.