Healthy Village

Permanent weight loss is about abundance  not deprivation. To lose weight for life without hunger eat generous amounts of the most nutritious foods every day. Becoming healthy means making nutritious eating the goal.

You will lose pounds for life when you fill your body with the nutrient dense foods it craves. Here are 10 healthy diet foods that you might not think of:

1. Nuts

Walnuts, almonds, macadamia nuts - all have healthy fats you need to lose weight and help prevent heart disease. Eat small handfulls as snacks to curb afternoon hunger, or add to salads and stir-fries. 

2. Cinnamon

Who knew spices were more than just tasty condiments? This antioxidant-rich seasoning  prevents blood sugar spikes and crashes. Studies show that a half-teaspoon a day lowers blood sugar and cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes. Add to your morning oatmeal or sprinkle in coffee for a no-calorie flavor boost.

3. Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, every type of berry has its own unique combination of healthy anti-oxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Berries are a low calorie dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth with fiber and your eyes with vibrant color.

4. Broccoli

OK you're tired of hearing how healthy broccoli is. Broccoli is one of the original superfoods - loaded with cancer-preventing phytonutrients and fiber. If you are convinced you don't like broccoli, try this simple vegan recipe for Creamed Lemony Broccoli www.lose-weight-for-life.com/creamed-lemony-broccoli.html.

5. Olive Oil

We've been hearing a lot about Omega-3 fatty acids and the Mediterranean Diet and how beneficial they are for your heart. One of the keys is thought to be olive oil used in salads and cooking. Ditch the butter and other vegetable oils in favor of high quality extra virgen olive oil for healthy weight loss and vibrant health.

6. Grapefruit

A study by the University of California at San Diego found that people who consumed half a grapefruit twice a day lost a pound a week without changing anything else about their diet or exercise habits as compared to a control group. Grapefruit is of course high in vitamin C and other immune-boosting compounds. Start your day with half a grapefruit and you will lose pounds for life.

7. Quinoa

Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-WA) has the highest nutritional profile of all grains. It contains high levels of dietary fiber and B Vitamins and has all 8 essential amino acids. Quinoa is clearly one of the "good carbs" that will burn slow and provide lasting energy, keeping hunger at bay. It's also high in zinc, potassium, calcium and Vitamin E and has been shown to strengthen the kidney and heart.

8. Sweet Potatoes

Potatoes get a bad rap by dieters, but the truth is sweet potatoes have complex carbohydrates and are so high in nutrients that they deserve a place at every table.  They have generous levels of vitamin A, fiber, vitamin C, and special blend of anti-oxidants. Plus they are sweet!

9. Green Tea

The health benefits of green tea are not yet proven by rigorous scientifc studies, but there is no doubt it contains unique healthy anti-oxidants that my hold the key to preventing a variety of diseases. While it's unlikely loading up on green tea will result in quick weight loss, there is some evidence that it can help. There are so many reasons to drink green tea that it's worth making it part of your daily routine.

10. Romaine Lettuce

Romaine lettuce is truly one of the diet superfoods. It has very few calories but is high in fiber, vitamins K, A, and C. Salads made with romain lettuce should be a staple for everyone trying to lose pounds for life. The phytonutrients and fiber will keep you young and slim.

What are your favorite nutritious foods?