Losing weight can be a lot of hard work. But, smart dieters know how to minimize this work and maximize weight loss efforts at the same time. Choosing the best foods for your diet, like fish, can help you lose weight easier and in a healthier way.
Why eating fish is one of the best foods for dieters
Fish is both high in protein and low in fat, so it fills you up without a lot of calories. You can eat a far larger serving of fish for the same number of calories compared to many other protein sources, especially if the fish is broiled, baked or steamed without adding excess fat to it.
Eating enough protein is essential when you’re trying to lose weight, because protein takes longer to digest. This means you stay feeling full for longer on protein than on many other kinds of foods.
Fish also contains high levels of essential omega 3 fatty acids
But, fish has an added benefit in addition to being a great protein source. Fish is a fantastic source of Omega 3 essential fatty acids. These fatty acids help control your body’s production of leptin. Leptin is produced in the brain. Lower levels of leptin have been shown in research to help you burn more calories.
In addition, Omega 3 fatty acids help lower cholesterol. These are the primary ingredient in those fish oil supplements that are so popular among people trying to prevent heart disease.
Dieters have a wide range of choices when it comes to eating fish. White fish like flounder have fewer calories and less fat. However, oilier fish like tuna, mackerel and salmon contain more Omega 3 fatty acids. This makes virtually any type of fish a good choice. You’ll just need to choose smaller portions when eating oilier, higher calorie fish.
Fish is easy to prepare and cook
Most fish varieties taste great simply broiled with a little lemon juice and herbs on top. Fish cooks quickly, so it’s a convenient choice for busy week night dinners.
Experts recommend you consume fish at least 2 to 3 times per week to gain the full health benefits
One concern that some people have with eating fish is the amount of mercury contained in some fish. Unless you’re pregnant, or feeding it to a very young child, mercury is typically not a concern in fish consumption. If you are pregnant or nursing, or if you’re feeding fish to a young child, it’s best to avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tile fish.
Fish is, indeed, one of the most versatile foods you can eat. It’s tasty, comes in lots of varieties and can be prepared nearly any way you choose. And, regular consumption of fish can help lower your risk of heart disease as well as help you lose weight. There’s likely no better weight loss food than fish.
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