Fat Fighting Foods

We all know that we need to eat in order to lose weight. But did you know that there are specific foods that actually fight body fat? Here is a list of foods you can eat in the war against the bulge!


Grapefruit - Not only is grapefruit relatively low in calories, high in fiber, and has a low glycemic index rate, but it actually can help stabilize your blood sugar levels. Grapefruit helps keep insulin levels under control, providing enough glucose for the cells to operate correctly, but not so much that the excess is stored as fat.
Flaxseed - These seeds attract oil-soluble toxins that become lodged in the fatty tissues of the body. Once attracted, they help to escort fat-soluble toxins out.
Garlic and Onion - This dynamic duo of foods contains phytochemicals that break down fatty deposits in the body, while also breaking down cholesterol; killing viruses, bacteria, and fungi; and protecting against heart disease.
Cruciferous Vegetables and Leafy Greens - Since hormones play a major role in weight loss (especially those last pesky 5-10 pounds of belly fat!) foods high in two compounds—indole-3-carbinol and Calcium D-glucarate—may help optimize estrogen levels, which can help fight fat. They are also low in calories and high in fiber which keeps things moving :)
Almonds - Dieters who ate 3 ounces of these nuts every day reduced their weight and body-mass index by a solid 18 percent compared with an 11 percent drop in the no-nut group, a study in the International Journal of Obesity found. Almonds are high in alpha-linolenic acid, which can speed the metabolism of fats. Stick to 12 per serving.
Beans/Legumes - Legumes are the best source of fiber of any foods. They help to stabilize blood sugar while keeping you regular.


SPICES THAT FIGHT FAT TOO!!
Cinnamon - Researchers at the USDA showed that a quarter to one teaspoon of cinnamon with food helps metabolize sugar up to twenty times better than food not eaten with cinnamon.
Cayenne - This hot spice lessens the risk of excess insulin in the body by speeding metabolism and lowering blood glucose (sugar) levels, before the excess insulin can result in fat stores.
Turmeric - The popular spice used primarily in Indian cooking is one of the highest known sources of beta carotene, the antioxidant that helps protect the liver from free radical damage. Turmeric also helps strengthen your liver while helping your body metabolize fats by decreasing the fat storage rate in liver cells.



*This is just a partial list. High protein, low fat foods such as lean meats, fish, and egg whites are also very beneficial. Eat as many veggies as you can! Replace dessert with fruit and nuts. You get the idea...happy eating :)