When it comes to losing weight, calories count and you should keep them in check. However, not all fat-based food will make you fat. As a matter of fact, fats have higher energy content than carbohydrates.
Having too many fat-based foods is not ideal because the body has difficulty breaking it down. Fat that is not broken down is accumulated in tissues and blood. If you are planning on getting into a long-term weight-loss program, you should consider how the body interacts with all nutrients, and not just count calories.
This is why some diets include fat-rich foods that actually help you lose weight.
A 2013 study found that people who ate avocados developed a better waistline than those who did not. This study was published in Journal Nutritional. Avocados are a wonder of nature as they contain nearly 20 vitamins and minerals.
For years, avocado has been shunned due to its fat content. However, today we know that its monounsaturated fat is actually healthy. It helps you feel fuller for a longer time and keeps blood sugar levels in check. Besides this, it contains antioxidants, like lutein, which also helps to maintain the sugar and insulin levels in the blood.
Olive oil is very popular in the Mediterranean diet. Studies have revealed that olive oil also helps maintain a sensation of fullness by increasing the levels of serotonin. It is the aromatic compounds that are believed to help with this feeling of satiation.
When buying olive oil, experts recommend you check on the authenticity and place of origin. The California Olive Oil Foundation offers such certification. Also, try to choose oils that were harvested more recently.
Nuts have also had some bad press and some people restrict their intake of them. However, research has revealed that, on average, nut eaters have less belly fat than those who do not eat nuts.
Nuts are a carbohydrate-rich snack option, but not as good as other options, such as crackers or pretzels. They can also help control sugar levels, keeping cravings in check. It is still an important source of calories so you might want to keep your daily intake under control.