Eating right and trying to maintain your weight can be difficult at times. It's so easy to give into temptation and crack open that box of mac and cheese.
Why is committing to your weight loss plan so hard?
Maybe it's the committment part that makes it difficult or maybe it's just trying to figure out what to cook that will contribute to your goals.
But, surprisingly, there are some ingreidents lingering around your kitchen that could help you out with your goals and even inspire your inner chef.
Here are 10 ingredients that can contribute to weight loss:
1. Ginger
A personal favorite ingredient of mine, ginger makes for great flavor when it comes to cooking, and it also works to flush your system of outside radicals. Gingerol, the active compound in ginger root, contains medicinal properties that both protect and alleviate your system's functions. Basically, ginger is a great way to kill two birds with one stone in your cooking.
2. Chia seeds
Chia seeds are a great source of nutrients that don't give you a mouthful of calories as well. Chia seeds have been recognized as a modern day super food and provide the body with vital antioxidants.
3. White kidney beans
White kidney beans have been proven to give the body antioxidants, fiber and properties that cleanse your digestive system of impurities. Eating white beans along with indulging in regular exercise could help you achieve your weight loss goals if eaten regularly.
4. Cocoa powder
According to Livestrong, cocoa powder has been proven to contribute to weight loss. The amount of fiber within the powder is 14 percent of your recommended daily intake. Fiber is a key component of inducing your stomach to feel full, and therefore, causes you to eat less. Dark chocolate cocoa powder could be a game changer when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth and still managing your weight.
5. Lemon and black pepper
Pepper is a great source of iron, potassium, vitamin C and fiber. Combine pepper with lemon and it will become an even richer substance. Lemon reacts as a natural acid that will detoxify the system of any lipids or fats. With that being said, cooking lemon and black pepper chicken for dinner might be one of the best decisions you will ever make.
6. Decaffeinated black coffee
This bitter substance may not be everyone's favorite, but the benefits it gives your body are unbelievable. As long as you consume it decaf and with no other preservatives, black coffee holds only 2 calories and 0 grams of fat per 8 ounces. This drink also produces antioxidants that provide health and beauty benefits.
7. Flax seed oil
I take this everyday and my digestive system has never felt better. Usually I use mix a little in with my rice when it's boiling. Flax seed oil helps regulate your metabolism. Though it does has to be taken consistently to keep your digestive system regular.
8. Grapefruit
When the citric acid grapefruit naturally produces combines with natural stomach acids, your stomach is able to digest food faster. Eating grapefruit will pay off in the long run, as it boosts your metabolism and keeps your body systems running smoothly.
9. Raw honey
Not only does organic honey act as a natural sweetener, but it combats weight gain. It also has antioxidants, antibacterial, antifungal and nutritional properties that protect the bodies digestive tract. Taking one to two teaspoons before you eat will help you reap the benefits this ingredient has to offer your body.
10. Coconut oil
Take one tablespoon after you eat or throw it in with your meal. The nutrients and antioxidants that coconut oil produces will sooth your digestive system.
As a woman who has struggled with her weight, I understand how frustrating weight loss goals can be.
But over time I have realized that it is the small things that make the biggest differences in the body. Slowly with surely, and with patience and commitment, you will see your body changing. Don't give up.
