You’ve overhauled your diet and workouts most days, and even though you’ve shed some pounds, those last few lbs. just won’t seem to budge. So what gives?
Nutritionists say that despite your best efforts to shed those pounds, there are some things that you may not even realize have a significant impact on your weight.
Let’s be perfectly honest, people with a healthy gut don’t struggle with weight loss.
Fortunately, a recent research in the journal mBio suggests that your gut’s health can boost your metabolism and drastically reduce your chances of packing on extra pounds.
Researchers agree, the foods that help you restore your gut’s balance are also natural weight loss powerhouses.
That’s why people following a Mediterranean-style diet don’t struggle with extra pounds.
To help you lose inches and improve your health, we’ve compiled the best motivation tips from our readers who have reached their ideal weight without giving up their favorite foods…Enjoy!
THE PERFECT BREAKFAST
If you don’t eat breakfast, it’s time to start. Eating a high fiber breakfast will help you eat less through the day.
Good to know: Both oatmeal and berries are loaded with fiber that nourishes your gut flora. It also stimulates a compound that reduces fat storage.
SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH
Good News! Antioxidants in cocoa may lower blood sugar and control excess weight naturally.
Researchers at Louisiana State University found that gut bacteria convert cocoa into heart-healthy compounds that reduce inflammation and block insulin resistance.
Good to Know: These effects are increased when dark chocolate is consumed with apples.
Melt dark chocolate chips in the microwave. Dip apple slices in chocolate and shake some chopped nuts while chocolate is still wet. Place in the fridge and allow chocolate to harden.
THE BEST PROTEIN TO BOOST YOUR METABOLISM
Try a low-fat Greek yogurt with fresh berries and a drizzle of raw honey. This is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without guilt and deprivation!
Good to Know: Look for live cultures and less than 20 grams of sugar per serving.
BLOCK SUGAR ABSORPTION
Vinegar is a powerful sugar blocker. Recent studies show that consuming a salad with a vinegar-based dressing before a meal containing carbs may lower your blood sugar and insulin levels by 25%.
