Spring has officially started and the weather is warming up, meaning that just as your New Year’s resolutions were fading, you may be starting to think about bathing suit season and losing any extra winter weight. If losing weight and the fast-approaching summer is on your mind, don’t think that you have to deprive yourself of delicious foods and fun with friends. HealthyDiningFinder.com's Sara Lucero shares these tasty ingredients - 5 foods for weight loss that are just as easy to find at your favorite restaurants as they are in your local market and will have you feeling more confident in no time.
Nuts – These little guys have a knack for keeping you satisfied whether you’re snacking on a few between meals or using them to top salads and parfaits. They pack protein and healthy fats and are VERY portable for those moments when you need to keep hunger and cravings at bay.
Leafy Greens – These veggies are masters of fiber, vitamins and minerals, and they’re loaded with water meaning, that while they’re fueling your body with all the nutrients it needs to keep metabolism humming along, they’re also filling you up with fewer calories. Enjoy in salads, as sides or mixed into other entrées to boost nutrition.
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Yogurt – Protein is a must when weight loss is your goal. A little protein at every meal can go a long way in keeping you on track with your diet goals. Yogurt has just the protein you need and can also make a healthier sweet treat to satisfy cravings. Mix plain, nonfat yogurt or Greek yogurt with fresh fruit and nuts for breakfast, snack or dessert.
Edamame – Like yogurt and nuts, edamame is an easy and tasty way to add protein to your meals and snacks. These little soy beans can also be very easy grab-and-go snacks. Keep edamame on hand in the fridge and freezer for an easy snack or blend it into a creamy edamame hummus for dipping veggies.
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Chili – Firing up your meals with chili can be a good way to boost your diet. Not only are you sure to be drinking more water to stay hydrated, chilies may also help boost calorie burn thanks to the compound capsaicin. Bring on the heat baby!
These are just some of the foods out there that can help you with your weight loss goals. Eating a well-rounded diet that includes lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains paired with regular exercise is key to weight loss and feeling confident this summer. Find recommendations for a well-rounded diet here. Find weight loss tools, diets and information on sites like eDiets.com, and always search for dietitian-recommended Healthy Dining choices like these on HealthyDiningFinder.com before heading out to your favorite restaurants:
Anaheim Panini with Egg Whites at Corner Bakery Cafe
(480 calories, 23 g fat)
Mango Mojito Shrimp at Cuba Libre
(300 calories, 11 g fat)
Paia Burrito at Maui Tacos
(560 calories, 11 g fat)
Appetizer: Garlic Chicken Flatbread (Serves 2) at Seasons 52
(190 calories, 7 g fat)
Mango Stir Fry - 600 Calorie Entrée at Silver Diner
(600 calories, 5 g fat)
