When it comes to losing weight there's no quick fix, but there are foods that burn fat to help you on your journey.
What Are Foods that Burn Fat?
First and foremost, the expression "foods that burn fat" doesn't exactly mean certain foods will burn up your fat and calorie storage. Instead, these foods assist in burning fat by either giving a boost to the metabolism or breaking fatty components. When taken in healthy doses and paired with a doctor approved fitness program, it will appear that these foods do, indeed, burn fat. It's also important to note that your mother was right! It's best to eat your fruits and vegetables, for these are the foods that assist best in the fat burning process.
Foods that burn fat are those foods that metabolize at a quicker rate, when combined with exercise, than other foods. Foods rich in vitamin C or those containing fiber are good examples of foods that burn fat. Some of these include:
- Grapefruits
- Lemons
- Limes
- Oranges
- Cabbage
- Celery
- Carrots
- Watermelons
- Apples
- Oatmeal
- Peppers
Vitamin C is especially helpful because it dilutes or liquefies fat. Because of this, the fat is more effective, making it easier to burn off during exercise. Eating citrus fruits on a daily basis does help to increase your metabolism. Grapefruit has been known to lower insulin levels, which will in turn make you less hungry.
Green Tea
Ok, so it's not exactly a food, but green tea is said to be a wonderful fat burner because it increases the metabolism. That isn't to say you can binge all night and all will be forgiven after a couple of cups of tea, but drinking green tea or taking green tea supplements can help to give the metabolism a boost.
Dairy Foods
Dairy foods can block the production of a fat producing hormone called calcitrol. Don't load up on the cheese, but do drink skim milk or eat some low fat or fat free yogurt on a daily basis.
Water
It's not what immediately comes to mind when thinking about foods that burn fat, but water is an important staple in any dieter's arsenal. Not only does it keep you feeling full, water also keeps you hydrated. Those who are dehydrated have a slower metabolism.
Hot and Spicy Foods
Jalapenos don't only give your food a kick, they give your metabolism a kick too when they raise your heart rate.
Protein
Protein causes your body to burn hotter, this of course helps to burn calories and fat.
Other Ways to Burn Fat
Don't just load up on the above mentioned foods and expect to lose weight, however. To lose the pounds and keep them off, you'll have to burn fat with exercise. When it comes to weight loss, the only way to lose the pounds and keep them off is to do it slowly but surely. By burning off more calories than you ingest, you're sure to lose weight.
It's always best to check with your doctor before beginning any weight loss routine. She will advise you as to the best diet for your weight and lifestyle and the type of fitness regimen you should undertake.
Good luck!
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