Nuts, small in size are packed with several essential nutrients and play a key role in maintaining health and body weight. Recent research has proved that nuts increase the feeling of satiety due to their high content of healthy fats, protein and fibre which can help with weight loss and maintenance. Similarly, fruits contain many nutrients that are beneficial for your health and are packed with antioxidants, fibre, vitamins and minerals and that can help you live longer, look better and even prevent disease.
Here are a few nuts and fruits that you must include in your diet to fetch optimum results with your weight loss regimen:
1 . CASHEW NUTS
-Cashew Nuts have a lower fat content than most other nuts. Most of their fat is unsaturated fatty acids, plus about 66% of this unsaturated fatty acid content is heart-healthy mono saturated fats.
-2 to 3 cashew nuts daily would go well in maintaining your health and weight. You can have them in the evening along with other nuts, instead of other unhealthy snacks.
2 . ALMONDS
-Almonds, can be better known as a natural weight loss pill. Almonds are rich in amino acids L-arginine, can actually help you burn more fat and carbohydrates during workouts.
-For optimal results, eat your daily serving before you hit the gym. A right portion a day would be 5 to 7 almonds before a workout. One can even soak them at night and peel them and have them early morning before breakfast.
3 . PISTACHIOS
-Pistachios are loaded with omega 3 fatty acids which support heart health and assist in weight loss. The high fibre content of pistachios will not only help you feel full for a longer time but the fibre is essential for healthy elimination as well.
-A half cup of pistachios gives about 60 calories. For weight watchers about 10 to 15 pistachios would be ideal. Remember to choose the unsalted variety.
4 . APPLES
-Apples contain non-digestible compounds that promote the growth of good bacteria in your gut associated with weight loss. These compounds help to restore microbial balance and also seem to reduce chronic inflammation which increases the risk of obesity. Apples also make you feel satiated for a longer time and helps you avoid overeating.
-Aim to eat 2 to 3 apples a day when on a weight loss programe.
5 . WATERMELON
-High in water content (90%), a 100 gram serving of the watermelon contains 30 calories. They are also a rich source of amino acids called arginine which helps burn fat. The best thing about watermelon is that it not only keeps you hydrated, it also keeps you satiated for a long time which will lead to less unhealthy snacking.
-Have a glass of watermelon juice along with your breakfast and a slice of watermelon in the evening before dinner.
6 . STRAWBERRIES
-Strawberries can increase the body’s production of a hormone that stimulates your metabolism and suppresses your appetite. Strawberries can also help your weight reducing hormones function properly. One cup of strawberries contains only 49 calories.
-You can easily include 2 cups of strawberries in your daily diet, mid-morning and other in the evening. You can also add a handful of sliced strawberries to your cereal, hot oatmeal, smoothies and yoghurt.
So, go ahead and include these fruits and nuts in your weight loss regimen and shed those extra kilos the healthy way. Eat Healthy, Stay Healthy!