By making just a few changes in your diet, you can very well be on your way to weight loss. In a groundbreaking exploration involving nearly 125,000 healthy adults, researchers have unveiled a significant link between the quality of carbohydrates consumed and the pace of weight gain over a four-year period. The study emphasises the pivotal role of opting for healthier food choices in effective weight management. Examining data from three comprehensive databases, the study published on JAMA Network focused on individuals without chronic health conditions, revealing that substituting refined carbs with whole grains and reducing animal-based fats and proteins can notably curb weight gain.Â
Also Read:Â Weight Loss: 5 Healthy Diet Facts That Anyone Wanting To Lose Weight Must Know
What to eat for weight loss:Â
Beneficial components identified include high-quality carbohydrates like whole grains, plant proteins, fruits, vegetables, and fats from vegetable oils. Â
What not to eat for weight loss:Â
Unhealthy carbohydrates such as refined grains, red and processed meats, and saturated fats were associated with increased weight gain.Â
A noteworthy aspect of the findings is the recommendation of fish as the optimal animal protein, closely followed by poultry. Diets rich in these healthy carbohydrates, along with plant-based proteins and fats, demonstrated a connection to slower long-term weight gain.Â
It is imperative to highlight that the research did not delve into very low-carb diets like keto, Atkins, or paleo. The study focused primarily on specific demographics, with a majority of participants being white women. Additionally, limitations arose from the reliance on self-reported dietary information and weights.Â
Despite these constraints, the study’s groundbreaking revelations stress the importance of informed decisions regarding carbohydrate quality. It underscores that even ostensibly healthy choices can impact weight management, depending on preparation and serving methods.Â
Ready To Embrace A Healthy Low-Carb Diet? Here Are 5 Of Our Recipes For You:Â
(Note: The recipes are not a part of the study)Â
1. Beetroot and Chickpea HummusÂ
This Mediterranean-inspired chickpea-based dip is gaining recognition in culinary circles for more than just its flavours. Did you know that incorporating hummus into your diet can be a savvy move for weight loss? Brimming with protein and beneficial carbohydrates, chickpeas take centre stage in this hummus. Enriched with the fibre-packed goodness of beetroot, this nutritious blend offers a delightful twist. For a wholesome experience, pair the hummus with whole-wheat pita bread. Click here for the recipe.Â
2. Spiced Sweet Potato ChaatÂ
During North Indian winters, the streets come alive with chaat vendors offering a unique concoction of boiled sweet potatoes, sprinkled with chaat masala and a hint of lemon. Beyond being a delectable winter street food, shakarkandi chaat stands out as a healthy snack choice. The carbohydrates in sweet potatoes digest slowly, preventing sudden spikes in blood glucose. Here’s a scrumptious recipe to satiate those offbeat cravings while aligning with your weight loss goals. Click here for the recipe.Â
3. Nourishing AlmondsÂ
A stellar example of a high-protein, low-carb snack, almonds have been endorsed by research for their potential for weight loss. For optimal benefits, soak almonds overnight and kickstart your day with this nutritious powerhouse.Â
4. Broccoli and Coconut StewÂ
Incorporating broccoli into your diet is a wise choice owing to its rich nutritional profile. Abundant in fibre, folate, vitamins C, K, and A, broccoli boasts minimal carbohydrate content. According to a recent study published in PLOS Medicine, vegetables like broccoli, soybeans, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and leafy greens are touted as weight loss allies. This stew combines the goodness of broccoli with the creamy richness of coconut milk, offering a satisfying and low-carb option. Click here for the recipe.Â
5. Mixed Beans Salad:Â
Elevate your taste buds with the Mixed Beans Salad, a vibrant and protein-packed medley of assorted beans. This refreshing salad combines kidney beans, chickpeas, black beans, and other legumes, creating a delightful texture and a spectrum of flavours. Tossed with crisp, colourful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions, the salad offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness. Click here for the recipe.
