8 Foods That Will Help You Lose Weight

The best way to lose weight is through a healthy, low-calorie diet and regular exercise but if you want to speed the process, try incorporating some of these healthy and without any doubt - delicious foods into your meal!

Grapefruit - In 2006, a study of 91 obese people conducted at the Nutrition and Metabolic Research Center at Scripps Clinic found that eating half a grapefruit before each meal or drinking a serving of the juice thrice a day have helped people drop more than three pounds in just over 12 weeks. Grapefruit's phytochemicals reduce insulin levels, a process that may force your body to convert calories into energy rather than fats.

Beans and Lentils - Tiny but mighty! Beans and lentils are both great source of protein. They are very high in fiber and slow to digest (very inexpensive and versatile too!). Eating them helps prevent insulin spikes which cause your body to create excess fat, especially in the belly area.

Peppermint - Peppermint is well-known for its potent healing and calming digestive properties so if you want to slim down your stomach, make sure to include peppermint in your diet. The best way to do so is to drink it in ta form.

Green Tea - The antioxidants called catechins present in green tea help speed the metabolism and fat burning. According to a recent Japanese study, 35 men who drank a bottle of oolong tea mixed with green tea catechins have boosted their metabolism, lost wight and had a substantial drip in their BMI (body mass index).

Salmon - Salmon, together with other fatty fish like mackerel and tuna is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids which is popularly known for reducing the risk of having heart disease. A 4-ounce serving baked / grilled salmon only have 160 calories which made it a perfect main course for those who are watching their weight.

Capsicum - Adding capsicum to your food is a great way to boost your metabolism and help burn fat faster. A single capsicum contains twice of your daily vitamin C needs. It is also rich in beta carotene which is great for keeping your skin, hair and nails healthy.

Pineapple - pineapple contains digestive enzyme that helps to ease bloating, settle your stomach, and even relieve heartburn. It is also high in natural fruit sugars also known as fructose, which could stave off sweet cravings.

Eggs - Eggs are one of the healthiest food on the planet and it's yolk is by far the most nutritious part. They are packed with protein, good fats and only have 80 calories each. Eggs are also high on satiety index which means that they are particularly prone to make you feel full and eat less overall calories throughout the day.

image: miranda kerr by terry richardson for harpers bazaar