The #1 Snack for Weight Loss, According to a Dietitian (2024)

FAQs

What is the best snack to lose weight? ›

Fiber is the indigestible component of plant-based foods, like fruits and veggies, legumes, whole grains and certain seeds, like chia seeds, and is the No. 1 food you should be eating more of if you're trying to lose weight.

Following a low-carb diet also means consuming more protein. Studies indicate that a diet rich in high-protein foods, such as eggs, fish, seafood, legumes, nuts, meat, and dairy results in overall less abdominal fat, more satiety, and an increased metabolic function.

Focus on nutrient-dense foods that are low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. These include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-fat foods as they are high in calories but low in nutrients.

The 30-30-30 rule involves eating 30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of waking up, followed by 30 minutes of low-intensity, steady state cardiovascular exercise. Beyond these steps, the 30-30-30 method doesn't require any changes to other meals or behaviors, restrictions or counting calories.

What do nutritionists say is the best diet? ›

The more veggies — and the greater the variety — the better. Potatoes and French fries don't count. Choose fish, poultry, beans, and nuts; limit red meat and cheese; avoid bacon, cold cuts, and other processed meats. Eat a variety of whole grains (like whole-wheat bread, whole-grain pasta, and brown rice).

Eat and drink low-fat dairy products. Reach for whole fruits and vegetables when you're hungry. Limit processed foods, which often contain saturated fat. Check labels on low-fat or fat-free processed food, which may have lots of added sugars and sodium (salt).

To lose 10 pounds in one week, you'll need to burn between 3,500 and 5,000 calories more than you consume each day by restricting your diet to small portions of nutritious yet low-calorie foods, and significantly increasing your aerobic exercise with interval training, sports, and other vigorous activities.

Focus on lean protein, fruits, and vegetables.

These foods are low in calories and high in essential nutrients. In addition, they will keep you feeling satisfied longer compared to carbohydrate based foods. Make sure to include a source of lean protein at each meal.

In general, the worst foods for your metabolism are high in saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars, and low in antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These types of food (and drinks) can increase the risk of inflammation and oxidative stress, paving the way for poor metabolic health.