20 Ways to Eat Your Favorite Foods and Still Lose Weight
Slim down with these simple swaps.
As a nutritionist with more than 20 years of experience helping people like you all over the country meet their health and weight loss goals, I prioritize sustainable and effective strategies for weight loss with my clients. These 20 eating tips have been instrumental in achieving those goals. And now they can work for you.
By focusing on portion control, nutrient-dense swaps, and mindful eating habits, I've seen firsthand how these approaches can lead to successful and lasting weight loss results. Incorporating these tips helps my clients make healthier choices while still enjoying their favorite foods, fostering a positive relationship with food and promoting overall well-being. Through personalized guidance and support, we work together to implement these strategies, leading to improved health outcomes and a happier, more confident lifestyle. So let's go! Here are my—or shall I say, your–20 ways to eat your favorite foods and still lose weight.
Pizza
Choosing thin crust reduces calorie intake while loading up on veggies increases fiber content and promotes satiety, aiding in weight loss. Order it light on the cheese to further reduce calories and saturated fat making it a healthy option as well.
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Burgers
Opting for turkey or veggie patties lowers saturated fat and calorie content, while whole grain buns provide more fiber, helping to control appetite and support weight loss. Serving the burger in a lettuce wrap further reduces the carbohydrates and calories but allows you to still indulge in your favorite burger without any guilt.
Pasta
Whole wheat or chickpea pasta contains more fiber and protein than refined pasta, promoting feelings of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake. For a super high fiber, low net carb pasta try The Only Bean. This 100% organic soybean pasta will let you enjoy your pasta and still lose weight.
Ice Cream
Low-fat or Greek frozen yogurt contains less sugar and fat than traditional ice cream, allowing for indulgence with fewer calories.
Chocolate
Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content is rich in antioxidants and lower in sugar, allowing for a small indulgence without derailing weight loss efforts. Try some of the healthy substitutes such as Choc Zero or Skinny Dipped for sweet indulgences that are not only lower calories but made from healthy ingredients.
French Fries
Baking sweet potato or zucchini fries reduces oil and calorie content compared to deep-fried potatoes, supporting weight loss while still satisfying cravings. Consider using an air fryer to cut down on fat completely.
Macaroni and Cheese
Using whole wheat pasta and reducing cheese sauce decreases calorie density and increases fiber, promoting fullness and aiding in weight management. Consider Skinny Mac for a low calorie, low carb alternative to traditional mac and cheese and enjoy this indulgent dish while still sticking to your diet.
Fried Chicken
Baking or air-frying chicken reduces oil absorption and calorie content, making it a leaner option for those looking to lose weight.
Stir-Fry
Opt for a stir-fry loaded with colorful vegetables, lean protein like chicken or tofu, and a small amount of sauce made with low-sodium soy sauce or broth. This dish is packed with fiber, protein, and nutrients, keeping you full and satisfied while still allowing for weight loss.
Omelet
Fill an omelet with a variety of veggies such as spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms, along with a sprinkle of reduced-fat cheese or better yet a dollop of salsa. Eggs are a good source of protein and essential nutrients, and adding veggies increases fiber content, promoting satiety and aiding in weight loss.
Tacos
Opting for lean protein and Siete Grain Free Taco Shells, along with adding plenty of veggies, increases fiber and reduces calorie and carbohydrate intake, supporting weight loss efforts.
Potato Chips
Choosing baked or air-popped chips reduces oil and calorie content while still providing a satisfying crunch, making it easier to stay within calorie goals. Check out Pop Chips in a 100 calorie snack bag for a lower calorie and fat option to a traditional potato chip but with all the flavor and crunch of the real thing.
Cake
Using healthier substitutes like applesauce or Greek yogurt lowers fat content and adds moisture without sacrificing flavor, and substituting stevia for sugar cuts out added carbohydrates and lowers the calories thereby supporting weight loss while still enjoying dessert.
Fried Rice
Using cauliflower rice and loading up on vegetables increases fiber and reduces calorie density, promoting fullness and aiding in weight management. With the right seasonings you won't miss the real thing.
Cookies
Making homemade cookies with almond flour, oats, and stevia reduces sugar and increases fiber content, supporting weight loss while still satisfying cravings.
Mashed Potatoes
Using low-fat milk or broth instead of cream and butter reduces calorie and fat content, making it a lighter option for those watching their weight. For an even lower carbohydrate and calorie option try making mashed cauliflower potatoes. I bet you won't be able to tell the difference.
Quesadillas
Opting for Siete Grain Free Tortillas and filling them with beans and veggies increases fiber content and reduces calorie density, supporting weight loss while still enjoying a Mexican favorite.
Pancakes
Using a grain free mix such as Simple Mills and reducing added sugars, along with topping with fresh fruit, gives you a higher fiber and higher protein pancake while reducing calorie content, supporting weight loss efforts.
Fried Fish
Baking or grilling fish reduces oil absorption and calorie content compared to deep-frying, making it a healthier option for weight loss.
Buffalo Wings
Baking or grilling wings instead of frying reduces calorie and fat content, while serving with celery sticks and light ranch dressing adds fiber and reduces overall calorie intake, supporting weight loss goals.
Best Life offers the most up-to-date information from top experts, new research, and health agencies, but our content is not meant to be a substitute for professional guidance. When it comes to the medication you're taking or any other health questions you have, always consult your healthcare provider directly.
