Okay, so maybe you can’t shed pounds instantly, but there are plenty of little changes you can make to your lifestyle to lose weight the natural way.  The biggest advantage to natural, progressive weight loss is that you are 68% more likely to keep the weight off.  Being calorie-conscious is important to any weight loss plan, but adding certain fat-burning foods can help you surmount the obstacles to looking your best. Try adding these 5 components to your diet and to see what a big difference that small changes can make!

1. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is the breakfast of choice for many athletes—and that’s no coincidence. We’ve all heard about the benefits that soluble fiber in oatmeal can have for cholesterol, but this simple staple is an essential weight loss food. Oats are easy to make and extremely filling. Not only will they keep you satisfied for hours, but they will give you an energy boost in the morning. Try adding fresh strawberries or use your favorite sweetener with ground cinnamon.  

2. Lentils

Lentils are magical little legumes. They are high in fiber and are an excellent source of protein, especially for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. Studies have shown that low fat, high fiber, high protein foods like lentils are a great food to help reduce fat around the abdomen. Unlike beans, they cook very quickly—about 20 minutes simmering on the stove. They can be added to vegetables to make an Indian-style curry or put into a delicious soup or stew for a hearty, healthy meal.

3. Grapefruit 

You may have heard of the grapefruit diet or heard about the health benefits of grapefruit, which is rich with vitamin C and lower in sugar than other citrus fruits. Researchers have found that grapefruit can control your insulin levels, which can help you store less fat. Eating half a grapefruit with breakfast or as a snack between meals can help curb your appetite. If you find grapefruit a little too sour for your taste, try sprinkling a little bit of sugar or sweetener.

4. Almonds 

Almonds are one of the most nutrient-packed and versatile nuts. Eating a handful of almonds (but not too many!) everyday can help you burn more fat than you would eating the same amount of calories contained in other foods. Alternatively, you can eat almond butter spread on bread to help curb the blood sugar spikes that simple carbohydrates cause our bodies. Almonds make a delicious and satisfying snack on the go. Try adding sliced almonds to salads or stir fries for an added nutrient boost.

5. Yogurt 

These days, it seems like there’s a commercial on every channel trying to sell women on the benefits of yogurt. While it shouldn’t be overstated, health and nutrition experts agree that yogurt does have numerous health and weight loss benefits. Plain or low-sugar, low-fat yogurt has a perfect balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat to control blood sugar and appetite. The live cultures in yogurt have also been found to offer numerous health benefits.

These are just some of the “power foods” that can translate into sustained weight loss.  For a more complete listing, we suggest a membership to an interactive weight loss site, such as BalanceD Diet, where you can interact with weight loss pros to customize these options for you!