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Seems everyone has a list these days. Well, I have one of my own that not only works for me, but for hundreds my clients as well. These foods will not only help your body burn more calories but they are delicious, affordable, and easy to prepare. So print out this list and get energized!
1.) High-fiber cereal. Look for 5 grams or more of fiber and no more than 8 grams of sugar. I like to have at least one hot cereal (rolled oats) and one cold (Kashi Go Lean Crunch).
2.) Apples. OK, any fresh fruit will do, but apples are so easy to grab and go, we always have them around. Make it easy on yourself and have at least two different fresh fruits you can choose to eat each day. This week, I have apple slices and grapes on hand.
3.) Almonds. Your "portable protein" -- the perfect emergency snack (or pair it up with a fruit or veggie). Theyre high in metabolism-boosting protein and healthy fats, but it is easy to eat too many. Measure out 1/4-cup servings and stick them in snack-size bags.
4.) Eggs. Yes, they are good for you. They are considered the gold standard of protein quality because of their superior amino-acid content. It takes less than three minutes to prepare an egg. One of my favorite on-the-go egg tips: Microwave your eggs in a coffee cup (lightly coated with olive oil for easy clean up). Your egg is now the perfect shape to top a whole-wheat English muffin and eat on the run.
5.) Spinach. This super veggie goes with everything. At only five calories per cup, how could it not? Use in omelets, wraps, salads, side dishes... the list goes on.
6.) Yogurt. A great source of protein and the live cultures help boost immunity, yogurt goes great with high-fiber cereals. However, avoid choosing brands that contain high-fructose corn syrup. Read the ingredients.
7.) Grilled chicken. OK, this is tied with frozen wild salmon filets (loaded with omega-3s) as one of the easiest, most versatile "meal makers" available.
8.) Black beans. Packed with the leanest protein and very high in fiber - and only $.75 a can - how can you go wrong? Beans are a great alternative to those who feel like they are eating the same protein day in and day out.
9.) Salsa. Yes, tomatoes have wonderful health benefits, but in salsa form they also work well to add low cal, energizing flavor to your meals, from eggs to rice and beans and even as a salad dressing (my absolute favorite). Choose a spicy variety and get the added metabolism-boosting kick from Capsaicin, the compound in peppers that gives them their bite.
10.) Green tea. Now, I used to be an avid Starbucks fan, but the extra calories and tons of sugar completely sabotaged my results. Green tea was the perfect replacement. It has a lower level of caffeine (to help me get off the energy roller coaster) and is loaded with EGCG. (Studies show this ingredient causes your brain and nervous system to run more quickly, helping you burn more calories.) Bonus: It enhances your mood as well. Be sure to brew your own for these benefits, though -- they are NOT found in ready-made green teas.
