'Bad'
Foods Can Help You Lose Fat and Weight
From
WebMD
Seductive foods seem to
lurk at every turn, especially when you're trying to lose weight. But many
foods that have gotten a bad rap aren't so terrible after all. Learn which
tempting treats can actually help you lose weight and keep it off.
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. Studies show small amounts of this favorite food can control
hunger without causing weight gain.
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
high-calcium diets may have other factors at work as well.
Coffee
Coffee only falls in the
"bad" category when you drink too much of it 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.
Bad
Foods -- Good Portions
Just about any
"bad" food can be part of your weight loss plan if you stick to small
enough portions. In fact, dietitians advise against banning your favorite
treats. Depriving yourself of the foods you crave could set you up for failure.
A better strategy is to set limits on quantity -- for example, one chocolate truffle a day -- and
stick to them.
