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Fruit is one of the best ways to fuel your body with vitamins and antioxidants needed for healthy and sustainable weight loss. However, just as with most food groups, some fruit options are better than others for boosting your metabolism and improving your overall health. If you’re looking to maximize the impact your diet has on your well being and pursue your weight loss goals, these are the four fruits you should be eating regularly to bolster your metabolism.
Strawberries
In general, berries are great for weight loss and adding some natural sweetness into your life, but strawberries in particular offer some valuable health benefits. “Eating strawberries daily can help with your weight loss efforts by providing you with a low calorie snack. They are also quite hydrating, which can add to your satiety and prevent overeating,” explains nutritionist Lisa Richards. “Strawberries deliver a significant source of vitamin C, which is beneficial for immune support. They are made of simple carbohydrates, which the body uses as a quick source of fuel for energy and mental clarity.”
Blueberries
Blueberries are another great fruit for weight loss as they are low in calories and contain antioxidants to help protect and support your body. Richards explains, “Berries of just about every variety, but especially blueberries, contain fiber and phytonutrients which act as antioxidants in the body. Antioxidants work to reduce free radical damage from toxins which lead to inflammation and chronic disease, like obesity.” Richards notes that blueberries are the highest in antioxidants in comparison to other berries, and their flavonoids provide us protection on a cellular level.
Grapes
Not only are they a great summer snack, but grapes are also wonderful for helping you reach your weight loss goals. Richards says, “This fruit is an excellent source of nutrients and water, both of which can boost weight loss efforts. They contain around 1 gram of fiber per cup, this may not sound like much but it adds a lot to the total fiber intake for the day. A diet rich in fiber can lead to weight loss.”
Pomegranates
Although it is not one of the most commonly raved about fruits, pomegranates are both fun to eat and excellent for your health. “Pomegranates are great sources of iron, with one pomegranate providing 0.8mg of iron. Low iron levels can lead to constant fatigue, which often results in poor dietary choices and not having the energy to exercise - two crucial ways to help lose weight,” says registered dietitian Megan Wong. “Pomegranates provide plant-based, non-heme iron, which is best absorbed when taken with vitamin C. Luckily, pomegranates are also rich in vitamin C, providing almost 50% of the Daily Value!”
