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It’s officially 2019, and that means it’s time to officially start getting in shape!
Experts say that the key to weight loss lies in your diet and it’s encouraged to consume foods and drinks that are low in calories and high in metabolism-boosting nutrients. In fact, there are plenty of zero-calorie options you can enjoy that will help kick-start your weight loss.
Here are four that fitness experts recommend incorporating into your diet:
1. Celery
“While not technically zero calories, celery is pretty close! Some even argue that the energy used for chewing and digesting a stalk of celery will negate the few calories it has,” Rebekah Blakey, a registered dietician at The Vitamin Shoppe tells SheFinds. “In addition, celery has good water content to maintain proper hydration and provides various nutrients including Vitamin K, folate, potassium, and vitamin C.”
2. Mint
"Mint has one of the highest antioxidant capacities of any food," according to Megan Ware, RDN LD. It’s loaded with anti-inflammatory properties and is great for managing blood sugar levels, which has been associated with weight gain. All you need to do is add a sprig or two of mint into your go-to smoothie recipes to reap its metabolism-boosting benefits!
3. Asparagus
Celebrity trainer Nat Bardonett, who has worked with stars like Halle Berry, told Shape, "Eat asparagus, it’s full of fiber and water to reduce bloating.”
4. Green Tea
Green tea isn't a zero-calorie food, per se, but it's filled with nutrients that will help you lose weight. “Not only calorie-free, green tea also contains an organic compound called EGCG which acts as a potent antioxidant and may help increase fat burning. The natural l-theanine content helps stabilize the caffeine content for a calm energy source," Blakey continues.
