Stock up on these weight loss superheroes.
9. Black beans
Black beans are a wonderful vegetarian source of protein, providing a heaping 15 grams per cup. Black beans are also free from the saturated fats associated with many animal sources of protein. We think you’ll enjoy a Southwestern Black Bean Casserole, some Slow Cooker Black Bean and Veggie Soup, or a batch of Skinny Black Bean Flautas.
10. Dark chocolate
If you have a sweet tooth, this one’s sure to please; dark chocolate contains anti-oxidants and mono-unsaturated fatty acids that boost your metabolism. A bite or two of dark chocolate—the purer, the better—after a meal will curb your craving for something sweet and help you avoid munching between meals.
Try one of these decadent dark chocolate recipes: Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters, Quinoa Chocolate Drops, Slow Cooker Fudge, or Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cups.
11. Avocados
Avocados often get a bad rap for being fatty, but the right kinds of fats can actually aid in weight loss. Avocados contain the good kinds—monounsaturated fats, to be precise—as well as fiber and protein to fill you up. As with any fat, avocados should be eaten in moderation. You may enjoy one of these 12 Recipes for Avocado Addicts.
Here are 21 more Benefits of Avocados.
12. Water
It sounds so simple, but staying hydrated is crucial to helping your body perform at its best and lose excess weight. Studies have shown many people mistake thirst for hunger, which means we reach for a snack when a glass of H2O is what our body actually craves. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day. Flush the Fat Away with These 5 Delicious Water Drinks!
13. Pears
Pears are loaded with fiber, which is one of the golden ingredients to feeling full and weighing less. Be sure to eat your pears with the peels on—that’s where all the fiber lies! Be sure to try our Avocado Pear Smoothie, Roasted Pear and Baby Spinach Sandwich, and Slow Cooker Cranberry Poached Pears.
14. Eggs
Eggs are considered by many to be one of the most perfect foods. They’re packed with protein and low on calories—a staple for losing weight. Start your day with a veggie omelet and you’ll be satisfied until lunch time.
Start your day right with one of these Egg Recipes:
Individual Egg and Spinach Bowls
Chocolate Oatmeal with Egg Whites
Pita Pocket Breakfast Sandwich
Protein Egg and Tomato Toast
15. Kidney beans
Another great alternative to red meat, kidney beans are filled with protein, fiber and resistant starch, all of which promote weight loss. Try Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice or a Spicy Southwestern Vegetarian Burger.
16. Bananas
We love bananas for so many reasons; they’re one of the easiest snacks to grab on the go, and they don’t even require refrigeration. One banana provides anywhere from 6-12 grams of metabolism boosting resistant starch.
Try our: Superfood Banana Pops, Strawberry Banana Smoothie, Banana Pudding, or Flourless Banana Pancakes.
17. Almonds
Almonds are another great non-meat option to help you shed pounds. Swap them out for chips or crackers when you’re craving a salty snack. Just be sure to stick to the serving size as almonds, like all nuts, contain a lot of fat. Enjoy almonds in a Quinoa Almond Joy Bar or in a batch of Slow Cooker Creamy Almond Oatmeal.
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