How can I lose weight by eating according to the season?
This article will explore the idea of seasonal eating, and how it may impact weight management. In my role as an obesity specialist I am frequently asked about different dietary approaches to weight loss. Eating seasonally is one such strategy. It involves changing your diet so that you include seasonal foods. This article will explain the benefits of eating seasonally, as well as how to get started. We'll also provide some seasonal food examples that can help you lose weight.
Why Eating Seasonally is Important for Weight Loss
When you eat seasonally, fruits and vegetables are harvested and grown at the same time as when they're eaten. This practice has many benefits, including supporting local farmers and eating fresher food. It could even help you to lose weight.
As they're harvested when at their best, and aren't subjected to long transport times or artificial maturing, seasonal foods have a higher nutritional value. They can keep you healthy and help with weight loss. A study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, for example, found that fruits and vegetables available during the season had a higher level of vitamin C than their out-of-season equivalents.
Get Started with Seasonal Eating
Start by learning what food is in season where you live. Farmers markets can be a good resource, since they usually sell local produce. Online, you can find seasonal food schedules that show what is in season for each month.
While eating according to the season can help you lose weight, this should always be combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise. The International Journal of Behavioral nutrition and physical activity published research that suggests that combining dietary modifications with regular exercise can be more effective than dieting alone for weight loss.
Some seasonal foods that can help you lose weight
- Apples: They are rich in fiber, and they can make you feel satisfied.
- Brussels sprouts (Winter). High in vitamin C and fiber, but low in calories.
- Spinach, Spring: Low in calories and packed with nutrients.
- Strawberries, Spring/Summer: Rich in fiber and water, strawberries can reduce hunger.
- Zucchini: High in fiber and low in calories.
- Oranges: They are low in calories, high in fibre and can be used to control appetite.
- Summer Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants and low in calories.
- Cucumbers: They are high in water and help you stay hydrated.
- Sweet potatoes (fall): Rich in fiber and can control appetite.
- Fall Pumpkin: Low in calories and high in fiber.
Other Tips on Eating Seasonally
It's true that eating according to the season can help you shed weight, but it is important to keep in mind that your overall caloric consumption and expenditure will ultimately determine if you gain or lose weight. Maintain a healthy, balanced diet by including foods from each food group.
Consider getting inventive in the kitchen. Exploring seasonal recipes will make eating more fun and help you stay on track with your weight-loss plan. Remember that moderation and eating healthy foods in small amounts is the key.
Conclusion
By encouraging variety and consuming nutrient dense foods, eating seasonally can help you lose weight. Like any other weight-management strategy, this is most effective when coupled with healthy lifestyle habits like regular exercise and balanced nutrition. It's important to remember that it is not only about losing weight, but also maintaining a healthy body weight over the long term.
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