Winter Foods For Weight Loss

Little do a lot of us know, the cooler months are the best time to kick-start your weight loss journey!

Research conducted by the Maastricht University saw that cooler temperatures can promote the growth of brown fat, which burns calories faster than white fat. White fat is the most common type of fat found in your body.

By simply feeling cold, or at least at a cool 16°, your body can burn up to 30% more calories per day! Aside from the temperature lending a hand, here are some of our favourite ‘winter friendly’ weight loss foods to help you stay on track during the chillier months. 

Incorporating beans and lentils into your diet is a great way to ensure that you’re providing your body with the essential nutrients needed to fuel your body and lose weight. 

During the colder months we love adding lentils and beans into meals such as curries, stews and our very own Immunity Boosting Winter Buddha Bowl.

Root vegetables are an amazing source of fibre, vitamins and minerals. They’re ideal for nourishing your body and effective in helping you lose weight. There are a variety of root veggies such as beetroot, carrot and sweet potatoes which are all amazing ingredients to help lower cholesterol, which in turn will aid your weight loss!

We love incorporating root vegetables like carrots and potatoes in a variety of meals. Take a look at our Nourishing Slow Cooked Beef Stew and Winter Butternut Squash Pumpkin Soup.

Oranges are one of the best fruits for weight loss! They’re high in fibre and water content. They’re a perfect addition to smoothies and salads, and they’ll keep you fuller for longer. Oranges are also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C which is needed to fight off cold and flu, boosting your immune system in time for that dreaded winter season!

Cinnamon is a wonder spice, it promotes weight loss, reduces cravings and boosts your metabolism! Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to your shake is a great way to boost your energy levels and help with your weight loss journey.

Brown rice is a very versatile ingredient! It can be made into a pudding and it’s a popular side for a lot of savoury dishes. It’s not necessarily a ‘bad’ carb for weight loss either — it’s enriched with essential nutrients and offers several health benefits. Just one cup of brown rice provides your entire daily intake of manganese, a mineral which aids your metabolism and blood sugar regulation. Amongst other benefits, brown rice is also naturally gluten free!

Take a look at our Cajun Beef & Veggie Rice recipe and get cooking with brown rice!