Fermented foods are good for your gut and your weight loss efforts. "The probiotics in fermented food, such as kimchi and unsweetened kefir or yogurt, facilitate your digestive system's ability to break food down better, meaning you get more nutrients out of the other foods you eat, which leads to better satiety," certified nutritionist Ariane Resnick tells ELLE.
Avocados are packed with healthy fats and fiber. "Avocados contain a good amount of healthy fats, which can help you feel fuller for longer and boost your metabolism," according to the ASFA. "They're also high in fiber and have been shown to increase feelings of satiety.
Lean meat such as chicken breast is high in protein and low in calories. "Both chicken thighs and breasts are good sources of lean protein," Sarah Klemm, RDN, CD, LDN, says via the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Salmon, mackerel, sardines, anchovies, and other oily fish are excellent for your health and your fat-burning diet. "Even fish that contain good amounts of omega-3 fats are still lower in calories compared to other proteins but provide the additional benefit of the essential omega-3 fats," dietician Miriam Troutner tells UnityPoint Health.
Greek yogurt is one of the most versatile ingredients for fat loss—yes, even full-fat yogurt. "Yogurt, particularly Greek yogurt, contains protein that requires more calories to digest than carbohydrates," registered dietician Gabriele Geerts tells ELLE.
If you like spicy food, congratulations, you are encouraging fat-burning and weight loss! "Hot spices, like black pepper and cayenne pepper, can help you to lose weight by boosting your metabolism," according to the ASFA.
Broccoli is low-calorie and high in nutrients—one cup of cooked broccoli has just 34 calories. "These cruciferous vegetables are loaded with fiber to help you feel full fast and stay satiated for a while," Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, tells Food Network.
Berries are about as perfect as a diet-friendly food gets: Delicious, low calorie, low sugar, versatile, and packed full of nutrients. "The sooner people start the type of diet that includes a higher intake of blueberries and strawberries, the better," says Dr. Eric Rimm, associate professor at the Harvard School of Public Health and Harvard Medical School.
Eggs have officially come out of the dietary wilderness to be accepted as a fantastic weight loss food. "Eggs are one of the best sources of fat-burning protein that will get your metabolism fired up," culinary nutritionist Trudy Stone tells ELLE.
Don't ditch carbs from your diet—not all are created equal. "Carbs like potatoes, bread, rice or pasta should make up no more than a third of your meal – and try to have whole grain versions where you can," says the NHS.