You’ve already coasted through the first weeks of 2017 and if you’re like many, your new year’s resolutions may be teetering on the edge of extinction.
Let’s face it, doing a complete 180-degree change from what you were doing previously is really difficult. Most people do not plan properly and before they know it, they’ve lost sight of their goals and are back in their regular routine.
That’s why I encourage people to make small tweaks and changes to their lifestyle, rather than giant life shifts, in order to reach their goals. It’s these small wins that add up over time to become big changes! For many, weight loss is that big wish they’d like to see come to fruition. The problem is, they aren’t really sure where to start. Is exercise the number one component? Do they need to be on a strict diet?
The short answer to both of those is no. Yes, what you eat is the major determining factor in your weight-loss success, but finding a sustainable way to do that is of utmost importance. After all, if you can’t stick to it, it won’t work in any case. This matters with your workout program, as well. Diving into a six-day-a-week intense workout routine when you’ve been sitting on the couch over the past months isn’t going to bode well.
I talk a lot about this in my book Strong Is the New Skinny: Find something that is easy to start and will get you moving without overwhelming you. You can always build from there.
With that, I’ve got my list of the top 21 superfoods to help you jumpstart your weight loss in 2017. Add these to your meals; eat them as snacks; or replace those junk food habits with these great alternatives and you’ll be looking and feeling better in no time!
1. Bone broth
Why I like it: The collagen and gelatin in bone broth are what make it such a beneficial addition to your diet. The collagen aids in the growth of your hair, nails and skin, while the gelatin has anti-inflammatory properties for your intestines. Just one warm cup per day will yield noticeable results in just a few days’ time.
2. Black beans
Why I like it: These guys are packed full of fiber, potassium, folate and Vitamin B6, to support heart and digestive health. When paired with a lean protein, this balanced meal will be sure to satiate you for hours.
3. Pickled vegetables
Why I like it: You’ve probably eaten a pickle before, and seen other pickled veggies out there, but I bet you didn’t know that they were also really healthy for you, too! Because of the fermentation process, lactic acid is released from the veggies and produces enzymes that improve your gut health. Pickled veggies are made with vinegar, which doesn’t contain any calories, so this also makes for a great snack that won’t set you back on your diet.
4. Pumpkin
Why I like it: This is another vegetable with a high concentration of beta-carotene and Vitamin A. At just 49 calories per cup, this high-volume, low-calorie food allows you to feel fuller on fewer calories than potatoes or grains. Go ahead, indulge in pumpkin everything!
5. Cauliflower
Why I like it: In addition to its many health benefits, cauliflower has been the latest craze because of its versatile usage. Consumers are buying prepackaged bags of riced cauliflower and using it as a base to their favorite dishes. Others are using it to make their own pizza dough crust. There are no limits, and because it’s a vegetable, you’ll save hundreds of calories compared to the count in your regular rice and grain dishes!
6. Olives
Why I like it: These can be eaten as a snack or an addition to your favorite dish. They are not only packed with antioxidants,…