Before revealing the list of specific foods that aid in burning body fat, it is important to explain how fat is deposited and used in the body.
Possessing a basic understanding of this will allow you to understand why certain foods are “fat burning” and empower you to be more prudent in the foods you select to eat.
How is fat deposited in the body?
It is well known that food is essential for the body to produce energy in order to perform effectively and maintain the healthy functioning of internal organs.
The energy level of food is measured in calories. In loose terms, more calories = more energy.
This energy is represented in the form of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates also known as macronutrients.
The energy that is not used by the body for functional and nourishing requirements is then stored as fat.
Foods that spike insulin levels and are fiberless, such as refined wheat, sugary drinks and processed foods, get pre-maturely turned into fat storage before being utilized as an energy source.
So the consumption of this ‘junk’ food will lead to false hunger pangs and quite often promote a cycle of over-eating.
How can food burn body fat?
It may seem unlikely to some because all foods have calories therefore may be possible sources of fat retention/storage.
Allow me to explain further. Select foods are high in vitamins and/or minerals that boost the metabolism, thus are in fact fat burners.
Also some foods contain very few calories but require more energy for digestion, therefore almost using more calories than were present in the food consumed.
There are also foods high in fiber that create a feeling of fullness when eaten in small portions.
Fat Burning Foods
Green Tea – Not only does green tea possesses many health benefits such as supporting healthy cholesterol and anti-cancer properties, it also contains a special antioxidant known to burn calories. Green tea is only minimally processed, and as a result retains the most concentrated amount of antioxidant polyphenols of all the teas.
Egg Whites – There are few natural foods that are as versatile and nutritious in their normal form as the egg white. This power-food packs in wide assortment of amino acids, vitamins and minerals with a relatively low calorie content. Best of all, egg whites can prove themselves complimentary to breakfast, lunch and dinner recipes.
Garlic and Ginger – Both garlic and ginger generate body heat which is required for healthy metabolism and enhances the burning of fat. Garlic additionally contains oils and minerals which aid in breaking down fat as well as increasing metabolism.
Chili peppers – When consumed, chili peppers increase body temperature which then speeds up metabolism, thus burning calories.
Blueberries – The sweet taste of blueberries is from sugar in the form of fructose which is different than the sucrose found in white sugar and is processed by the body much more efficiently. Berries contain a fiber that supplies the body with nutrition and inhibits fat absorption.
Olive Oil – The good fats (mostly monounsaturated) found in olive oil are heart-friendly. They help prevent heart disease, heart attacks, and hypertension (i.e. keeps blood pressure low); research has also shown them to be useful for weight management.
Citrus Fruits – Containing high levels of fiber, citrus fruits aid in digestion and decreases body fat. They are rich in Vitamin C which increases metabolism, therefore is conducive to fat burning.
Dairy Products – unsweetened yogurt and whole milk are rich in protein and calcium, both of which aid in metabolizing body fat. Make sure the dairy products you are consuming are the unsweetened varieties, extra sugar will have the adverse effect.
Broccoli – Known as a super food, broccoli is low in calories but very filling due to the high fiber content. It also possesses essential vitamins and minerals which promote a healthy metabolism.
Beans – High in protein and rich in fiber, beans are an effective fat burning food. The fiber in beans help cleanse and maintain a healthy digestive system. The most efficient beans for burning fat are lima beans, navy beans, kidney beans, and white beans.
Conclusion
There are numerous ways to include these fat burning foods into a balanced diet and benefit from the fat burning and weight loss properties they provide. Combined with physical activity and lots of water, you will soon begin to feel and look healthier.



