When the goal
is to lose fat, sometimes people focus on the quantity of what they are eating
more than on the quality and types of food they are putting in their
mouths. In all reality, up to 80% of successful results in weight loss
depends on diet alone. While food quantity is definitely important, fat
loss results will almost certainly plateau if the wrong foods are being
consumed.
Today’s society is very fast-moving
and busy so it’s often hard to resist all the “quick and easy” meal options
that are available. The problem with fast food or packaged meals and
snacks is that they are highly processed and contain chemicals, preservatives,
excess sodium and are often packed with saturated fat and sugar. Even
pre-packaged “diet” meals contain added sodium and preservatives. These
foods can result in blood sugar spikes, excess fat storage, low energy levels,
and bloating. In order to attain the best fat loss (and health) results, it’s
best to stick to foods that are as close to their natural state as possible.
CARBOHYDRATES
Whole grain and whole wheat pasta,
brown rice, rolled oats, potatoes and sweet potatoes, cream of wheat, 100%
whole wheat bread, beans and legumes, fruits such as berries, apples, and
melons, and veggies are all carbs that are unprocessed and retain all of their
natural nutrients and fiber. They won’t spike blood sugar and will be
used more efficiently for energy instead of fat for storage!
PROTEINS
As with carbs, protein that is
unprocessed is always best. Also, some protein can be high in saturated
animal fats, which should be highly avoided. Lean protein that is close
to its natural state includes skinless chicken breast, skinless turkey breast,
pork tenderloin, white fish and salmon, shellfish, lean beef (loin or
round), egg whites, and low-fat cottage cheese. Whey protein powder is
also a great way to consume lean protein.
FATS
Anything natural and unsaturated is
the way to go. It’s best to stick to Monounsaturated and Polyunsaturated
fats such as olive oil, flax seed oil, avocado, nuts and seeds, and natural nut
butters.
Switching over to an unprocessed
and natural food diet might take some getting used to and will probably require
more cooking and preparation in some cases, but the results will be incomparable.
Fat loss can be a difficult task, but if the diet is clean and natural, fat
won’t have a chance!
