Just about any "bad" food can be part of your weight loss plan if you stick to small enough portions ( Small portions oo). See which tempting treats can actually help you lose weight and keep it off. See below..
Eggs
When it comes to healthy eating, few foods have sparked
as much debate as eggs. The latest research suggests an egg a day is
safe and nutritious for most adults -- and if you eat that egg for
breakfast, you'll boost your odds of losing weight. The reason: Eggs are
packed with protein, which takes time to digest. Eating protein in the
morning keeps your stomach full, so you eat less during the rest of the
day.
Steak
For years, health experts have been admonishing us to
eat less red meat. But steak is not always bad for the waistline. In
fact, a lean cut of beef has barely more saturated fat than a
similar-sized skinless chicken breast. Like eggs, steak is loaded with
protein and can keep you feeling full longer. To get plenty of protein
with less fat, choose tenderloin, sirloin, or other extra-lean cuts --
and limit portions to the size of your palm.
Pork
Talk about a bad reputation -- the term "pork" is used
to describe all kinds of excess, so it's no wonder dieters often steer
clear. Here's a case where the meat itself is not what it used to be.
Today's cuts of pork tenderloin are 31% leaner than 20 years ago. That
makes this white meat a lean source of protein with benefits similar to
those of lean beef.
Pasta
Rather than avoiding pasta when you're dieting, make
the switch to whole grain and keep your portions small. Research
suggests people who eat several servings of whole-grain foods per day
are more likely to slim down and maintain healthy weights. According to
one study, eating whole grains rather than refined grains can also help
burn belly fat.
Nuts
Nuts may be high in fat, but it's the good kind. And
they are also rich in nutrients, protein, and fiber, which can help
stabilize blood sugar. Sure, you'll get a few extra grams of fat from
munching on a handful of nuts, but it's worth it if it helps you avoid
reaching for cookies or other sweets. Even peanut butter can be a
dieter's friend. In one study people who ate a handful of nuts a day
were slimmer and even lived longer.
Cheese
Dieters often try to cut calories by nixing
calcium-rich dairy foods, but some studies suggest this is a mistake.
One theory is that the body burns more fat when it gets enough calcium,
so eating low-fat cheese, yogurt, and milk may actually contribute to
weight loss. Calcium supplements don't seem to yield the same benefits,
so a diet rich in dairy may have other factors at work as well. Dairy
foods are also rich in protein, which helps keep you
Coffee
Coffee only falls in the "bad" category when you drink
too much of it (four or more cups a day) or mix in cream, sugar, or
flavored syrups. If you drink it black, you get a metabolism boost
without added fat and calories. Drink it skinny: Stir in skim milk for
added calcium and vitamin D, and artificial sweetener or one teaspoon of
sugar.
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