Foods that blast fat

SOME foods have a high thermogenic effect, meaning they burn calories as you chew, while others will drastically slow your metabolic rate. In the age where many people are desirous of being on the fit team with a more lean body, consuming the right types of food will be useful.

According to nutritionist Donovan Grant, in recent times the world’s population has become more obese, and with this in mind, the urgent need to eat foods which will blast fat and prevent/reduce obesity is always key.

Below he shares with All Woman some foods which have been found to be helpful in this regard.

Avocado/pear

According to Grant, the mono-unsaturated fat found in avocado is burned easily during our regular activities and it also encourages fat burning. He added that avocado contains a carbohydrate called mannoheptulose. Grant said this is a sugar which reduces insulin release and enhances calcium absorption, and both processes help to burn fat.

Broccoli

“This fibrous vegetable does not provide many calories. However, it can make you feel full. It also contains vitamin K and phytochemical which can enhance weight loss,” Grant said.

Flaxseed

Grant said this contains the essential omega 3 fatty acid alpha linolenic acid. He explained that omega 3 fats have been found to stimulate fat-burning genes and turn off storing genes.

Ginger

The nutritionist said although used for centuries to help with digestive disturbances, ginger has also been shown to boost calorie-burning when eaten.

Grapefruit

According to Grant, at least one study has shown that grapefruit can blast fat. He said this might be so since the fruit can be used to reduce insulin levels. He added that it contains a chemical called naringin which prevents fat storage.

Green tea

“Although not a food, this contains substances which can speed up the metabolic rate. It also protects against cardiovascular diseases and cancer,” Grant said.

Yoghurt

A low-fat dairy product, Grant said yoghurt is rich in calcium and vitamin D and it helps to build and preserve muscle mass. “This is important in having a high metabolic rate. In addition, protein has a high thermogenic effect. It takes about 30 per cent of the calories it contains to break it down. So a low-fat dairy meal of 90 calories will take 30 calories to break it down,” he said.

— KIMBERLEY HIBBERT