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You already know the fad diets you’re leaving behind and your grocery list is filled with trendy superfoods to fuel your healthy meal plans, but what do you toss in the grocery cart when you’re looking for a bit of a kick-start? We asked Keri Glassman — celebrity nutritionist, registered dietitian and founder of Nutritious Life — which foods are the best to boost our metabolisms and help us slim down, and she did not hold back. Read up and chow down!
1. Grapefruit: Everyone’s favorite sweet and sour breakfast treat is so much more: It’s a weight-loss jump start. Keri tells us, “One study found that people who ate half a grapefruit with each meal lost 3.6 pounds, while those who drank a serving of grapefruit juice three times a day lost 3.3 pounds. While all grapefruits are great, the pink and red varieties, which contain lycopene, are extra good for your heart.”
<b>Nuts</b>
We already know that this v. common snack is a key to good health. But Keri goes on to share more: “Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) — also known as ‘healthy fats’ — found in some oils, avocados and nuts (plant-based foods) can help your body boost its fat-burning effect. The trifecta of fiber, protein and fat in nuts helps to keep your hunger at bay and your body energized. Some studies show they can help you lose weight in your belly and even help protect you against heart disease.”
<b> Green Tea</b>
Move over, java — even coffee-lovers need to learn to make time for this fat-melting tea. “Green tea is richer in antioxidants compared to other tea varieties,” Keri says, “which may trigger weight loss by stimulating the body to burn calories and decrease body fat.” Looks like it’s time to trade happy hour for green tea latte hour.
4. Water: Let’s be honest: If there is such a thing as a fountain of youth, it’s most likely just made of H2O. Keri agrees, saying, “Hydration plays a role in an efficient metabolism. Try drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up. A slice of lemon adds some flavor, but the real benefit is the cleansing effect it will have on your liver, which will help metabolize the food you eat.”
5. Coconut: “These fruits are chock-full of a fat called medium-chain triglycerides,” Keri explains. “Medium-chain triglycerides (healthy fats) promote the breakdown of excess fat stores, helping you burn your excess body fat while increasing your energy and stamina.” Someone pass the coconut milk, please.
