BIKINI season is upon us and if you are trying to drop that extra weight, it might be time to look into foods with fat burning power.
According to Gert Coetzee, pharmacist and diet pioneer who founded The Diet Everyone Talks About, spices such as those used in many Indian and Asian dishes for example can help increase the metabolic rate, curb appetite and even stop fat cells from reappearing after weight loss.
Coetzee identifies the foods you can include in your diet that help burn fat fast.
Fennel: Fennel seeds contain potassium, magnesium, phosphorous, calcium and vitamins A and C and are a natural detoxifier and appetite suppressor which increase metabolism.
Nutmeg: Ground nutmeg is low in sodium and cholesterol while being high in fibre which can help you feel more full when cutting calories. Nutmeg is also an excellent source of manganese, which will assist in breaking down fats.
Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar offers a three-tiered approach to losing weight. A glass of water with two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar around an hour before a meal will help to suppress appetite.
Cloves: Clove, cinnamon, pepper and cumin seeds have very potent properties that help reduce cholesterol levels and has been found to help people with metabolic syndrome and other obesity related problems.
There are other options which also burn fat but to a lesser degree, according to Coetzee.
Ginger: Causes your tissues to use more energy thus burning more calories.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a great source of fibre and calcium which are important in your efforts to lose weight. Substitute sugar in your coffee, try adding one teaspoon of cinnamon instead.
Lemon juice: Lemon Juice contains acid which burns fat. Add a few teaspoons of lemon juice to your daily water consumption to help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit juice contains a fat burning molecule. A small glass of 100 per cent pure juice every morning could help you lose weight.
Pineapple juice: Pineapple contains bromelain, which helps your body digest protein. Consuming pineapple may help people who lack digestive enzymes digest foods better.
Raw tomato juice: Drinking one glass of tomato juice a day for eight weeks can help you lose about 2.5cm off your waistline without making other changes to your diet or lifestyle. Tomatoes also have been said to have the potential to fight cancer, heart disease and even depression.
Don’t just live on salad this summer, indulge in a spicy meal or a glass of grapefruit, pineapple or tomato juice and shed that extra weight in no time at all. Remember with fruit juice, ensure that it is 100 per cent pure juice and to drink it in moderation, as juices can be high in fructose and therefore fattening too.
