There is a common belief that eating certain foods on an empty stomach can make a big impact on your weight loss journey. Although there is still pending scientific evidence, many claim to have tried it with successful results, so it’s definitely worth the try! And hey, at the very least, you’d be getting a good source of nutrition and fiber that will provide you with the energy you need to get through the day!
Here are all the powerhouse foods you should be eating on an empty stomach for weight loss:
1. Lemon Water
Lemon water is a favorite amongst weight loss enthusiasts as it helps with detoxification and the acidic nature of the fruit can increase metabolism. For an added bonus, add a bit of cayenne, which may just as well help you “burn” off any fat.
2. Lemon Juice in Aloe Vera Water
Aloe Vera is also well known for being a powerful antioxidant and metabolism-booster. A good way to consume it is to peel a slice of fresh aloe and grind it with a bit of water and a tablespoon of lemon. But do be warned, because while many can’t seem to stop singing its praises, others’ accounts can be contradictory.
3. Cinnamon Water
Cinnamon isn’t just popular for being a flavor enhancer in both savory and sweet applications, it is also known for having antioxidant properties, aid in reducing bad cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as help balance blood sugar levels. A 120 mg dose of ground cinnamon in a cup of hot water will do wonders when consumed on an empty stomach!
4. Green Tea
A cup of good old green tea can be vastly beneficial first thing in the morning as t boosts metabolism and contains many antioxidants. You can also boost the benefits of your morning cup of green tea by adding a bit of lemon juice and/or honey, as they also contain antioxidants and help boost metabolism.
5. Wheat Grass
Wheat grass may be a bit harder to come by, but with the pop up of more health stores and the ease of online shopping, it shouldn’t be too hard to find. A good weight loss tip is to blend a few stalks of it with water and a few squeezes of a lemon. Make sure to strain it first before consuming though!
6. Oatmeal Water
Research suggests that oatmeal has slimming properties that balance blood chemistry. You can soak some oats in water to make a soupy bowl of oatmeal – it may not sound like the most amazing of breakfasts, but it sure does work!
7. Vegetable Juice
Make your own cold-pressed vegetable juices out of carrots, cucumbers and/or celery. Make sure no heat is introduced as it can kill off some nutrients. It’s a great way to get loads of nutrients on a very low-calorie content, and it’ll leave you feeling pretty full!
If you can’t make your own cold-pressed juices, store bought kinds with low sodium can be almost just as good, although the longer shelf life can mean a loss of some of the benefits.
8. Whole Eggs
Whole eggs in the morning are a great source of protein, amino acids, and healthy fats that provide you some much-needed energy to start your day. Despite certain beliefs, they do not increase your cholesterol, as they contain only healthy fats. The best way to enjoy them would be to boil them instead of frying them in extra oil.
9. Buckwheat
Buckwheat is not as well known as cereal but can provide you with a whole host of benefits like fiber, resistant starch, protein and a bunch of minerals. Eating it on an empty stomach will amplify these benefits and also keep you feeling full for longer. All you have to do is soak the groats overnight and either blend them into a smoothie or make some porridge.
10. Cornmeal Porridge
Cornmeal porridge has been a breakfast staple for a long time, but admittedly not as popular in the modern day, which is unfortunate because it can help you lose weight by keeping you full for longer as cornmeal is a complex carb that takes time to digest.
11. Watermelon
Watermelons aren’t just bloody delicious, they are also low in calorie content and high in fiber. Plus, it contains a lot of water, which can’t hurt either!
12. Blueberries
Blueberries are a superfood that can provide you with a much-needed dosage of antioxidants and fiber, as well as boosting your metabolism. You can add a handful of blueberries into our morning cereal or have it as a mid-day snack for that energy boost.
13. Papaya
Papaya is a delicious tropical fruit that not only provides your with a load of vitamins and minerals, but is also a diuretic that can help you lose water weight. Furthermore, it can also help in digestion and make your morning trip to the toilet a lot smoother!
14. Nuts
Nuts are another great source of nutrient, typically best eaten as a quick snack that can provide you with a boost of energy. You can also add some nuts into your morning breakfast for an early boost as they are high in calories and full of healthy fats, which are helpful in staving off hunger.
