Weight loss in the fitness world has always been something that generates a lot of confusion due to the widespread misinformation circulating online: extreme diets, false hacks, etc. All of this ends up making a process that is completely straightforward seem much more complicated than it actually is. To bring some order and debunk these false beliefs, the pharmacist and dietitian María Casas has taken on sharing through her Instagram account a list of affordable, nutritious, and accessible foods that help lose fat without starving or breaking the bank at the supermarket.
The expert is blunt from the start: “No single food burns fat by itself, much less localized fat; what exists are foods that help you eat fewer calories without going hungry.”
The Power of Breakfast: Why Oats Are Essential
The pharmacist and dietitian María Casas highlights oats as one of her favorite foods for breakfast because of everything it brings to the body. First, this cereal is ideal for regulating appetite because it contains a lot of fiber and is one of the foods with the highest protein content, which helps fill the stomach and keep us from feeling hungry for hours. In addition, it balances the intestinal microbiota and takes care of our digestion; in fact, far from what many people think about carbohydrates, the expert clarifies that “oats are anti-inflammatory.” Finally, it helps reduce blood cholesterol and prevents glucose or sugar from rising sharply after meals.
The Other Nine Foods That Will Help You Lose Fat
In addition to oats, María Casas proposes nine other very affordable foods that are perfect for filling the stomach and thus reducing snacking between meals, but contrary to what many believe, they do not add calories.
First, she talks about light Greek yogurt, ideal to calm sweet cravings because it is very satiating, affordable, and rich in protein.
On the other hand, she mentions 0% fat fresh cheese, which serves as the savory version of yogurt for preparing light sauces at home.
She also defends legumes, reminding that they do not cause weight gain and provide a lot of fiber and minerals when eaten in salads or simple stews.
Regarding frozen vegetables, the expert dispels the idea that they are worse and assures that “they are often better options because they retain their nutrients more effectively when frozen soon after harvest,” in addition to being incredibly quick to make.
As for the potato, she marks it as a great ally for giving energy to the muscles, noting that if it is boiled and left to cool it helps take care of digestion.
About seasonal whole fruit, she clarifies that it does not cause weight gain and recommends options such as watermelon, melon, strawberries, or apples for their high water content and vitamins.
Furthermore, skim milk or unsweetened soy milk proves perfect to take with coffee or in shakes, providing a lot of protein for little money.
Additionally, for cravings, 0% sugar gelatin is a great option to eat something sweet with hardly any calories. Finally, she highlights homemade microwave popcorn without butter or sugar, a wonderful snack because it occupies a large volume in the stomach and fills you up a lot. In the end, the key to losing weight without suffering or overspending is to choose such abundant foods that keep you full all day.
