Why is it that bananas have earned such a bad reputation in the weight loss department? People are often worried that eating bananas will make them fat. Bananas don’t contain any fat, cholesterol or sodium. The fiber content of bananas also helps to control hunger much better for those who are trying to lose fat.
Bananas can be an ideal pre-gym snack. In order to fuel energy, our body uses carbs and fats. Thus, this makes bananas an essential carb food, if taken before a workout. And as it is densely packed with nutrients and energy, it is an ideal snack for the fitness enthusiast. The natural sugars contained within the banana help provide a lot of energy before a workout. This is the reason why it is a huge favourite for serious athletes.
If you enjoy eating berries, then make sure you have at least two varieties in your fridge at all times for whenever a sweet craving strikes. Beyond their flavor, berries have a lot to offer when it comes to weight loss. Here’s how your favorite berry works to support your goals.
They’re low in calories
The next time you’re in need of a quick sweet snack, skip out on cookies or candy, opt for berries, and start seeing results. For so much sweet and tart flavor, berries are surprisingly low in calories. One cup of blueberries weighs in at 84 calories per cup, while strawberries are 44 calories per cup.
They’re high in fiber
Whether they’re fresh or frozen, berries are a great source of fiber, an essential nutrient that improves digestion and helps beat bloat. For the highest fiber content out there, opt for strawberries or raspberries; one cup of strawberries offers three grams, while one cup of raspberries offers a whopping eight grams.
They improve metabolism
Berries contain the flavonoid anthocyanin, which helps your body produce adiponectin, a hormone that’s been linked to lower glucose levels, curbed cravings, and boosted metabolism.
They fight belly fat
Your favorite blueberry smoothie is more than a treat for your taste buds. Research out of the University of Michigan found a diet rich in blueberries may change how your body stores and processes sugar for energy and, in turn, diminishes belly fat.
Ingredients:
- 1 banana
- ¼ cup strawberries, frozen or fresh
- ¼ cup blueberries, frozen or fresh
- ½ cup probiotic greek yogurt
- 1 tsp. flax seeds
- 1/2 orange, squeezed
- 1/2 lemon, squeezed
- ½ cup almond milk
Instructions:
Toss all ingredients in a blender and blend to the wanted consistency.
