10 Summer Foods to Boost Weight Loss
Whether you’re hitting the beach, tanning by the pool or just trying to look and feel your best this summer, it’s important to incorporate fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables into your diet. With all that sunshine comes summer foods that are packed with antioxidants, nutrients and water to rehydrate your long summer days. Although eating certain foods can’t automatically prompt weight loss, replacing high-calorie foods with low-calorie ones can shift you toward burning more calories than you consume — the key to shedding extra weight. The best way to make these swaps is by choosing nutrient-dense foods (that are naturally lower in calories) to enhance your health and ensure you’re still getting all the necessary nutrients needed for your weight-loss journey.
1. Berries
Whichever kind you prefer — blueberries, blackberries, raspberries or strawberries — these summer fruits contain several important nutrients and are lower in calories than other fruits such as bananas and mangoes. Berries are high in fiber (one cup of raspberries has 8 grams of dietary fiber, which is nearly a third of the recommended intake for women and 20% of what men need in a day), which helps you feel full longer and reduces the temptation to snack between meals. Berries are also rich in antioxidants and vitamins B and C.
2. Cucumbers
Cucumbers are hydrating and just what we need in the summertime heat. With only 16 calories per cup (150g) of sliced cucumbers, they are tasty in soups, smoothies and salads. At 95% water, cucumbers are hydrating and also contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, too.
3. Kabobs
Lean proteins like chicken, fish, poultry, beef and lamb are excellent for weight loss as they are loaded with amino acids, like leucine which help with maintaining lean muscle and reducing body fat. Fire up the grill this summer and enjoy skewers loaded with lean meats, veggies and even fruits.
4. Peaches
Peaches are one of summer’s finest fruits, and they’re great if you’re craving something sweet. One medium peach contains 39 calories and is rich in potassium and vitamin C — it contains 15% of the daily recommended value. The antioxidant beta-carotene gives peaches their golden hue and is converted by the body into vitamin A, which aids eye health.
5. Pineapple
Rich in vitamin C and potassium, pineapple also has a higher sugar-to-calorie ratio than other fruits — so enjoy it slowly as it’s quick to satisfy that sweet tooth. The stem of this juicy summer fruit is also a good source of bromelain, a compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties in the body. Pineapple is useful for more than just a sweet treat — it’s a great complement to your entrees.
6. SweetPeppers
This versatile summer vegetable is as low-calorie and nutrient-dense as it gets, clocking in at only 37 calories per medium pepper with a gram of protein, 2 1/2 grams of fiber and only 5 grams of natural sugar. Looking to boost your daily intake of vegetables? Stuff ’em — peppers work with any meal.
7. Tomatoes
Juicy, sweet and low in calories, tomatoes hit their peak ripeness in summer. One medium tomato contains just 32 calories with 2 grams of fiber. They’re a good source of vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, potassium and lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect against sun damage.
8. Watermelon
Containing 92% water, watermelon fills you up without weighing you down. Despite its low calorie count, it’s loaded with antioxidants such as lycopene and vitamin C, boosting your micronutrients while also keeping you hydrated. Try this for a refreshing summer treat.
9. Zucchini
Zucchini is one of the most versatile vegetables and can be used on the grill as a savory summer side or in a sweet baked treat, like zucchini bread. Zucchini is mild in flavor but can take on whatever seasonings or ingredients you add. One cup (150g) of sliced zucchini is low in calories (17) and carbs (3 grams) and rich in potassium, vitamins A, C and calcium.
What's Your Reaction?
