Nature’s Ozempic: Foods That Help Naturally Reduce Weight

Introduction

Everyone is talking about Ozempic or one of the many other GLP-1 weight loss medications. These drugs help people lose weight by curbing their appetite and taking control of their blood sugar. However, you don’t need a prescription to take advantage of the benefits that they may provide. Instead, filling your plate with the right foods could reap the same benefits without the side effects! Certain foods can help replicate the same advantages these drugs offer by regulating blood sugar, curbing appetite, and improving your body’s digestion. By making these mindful choices, you’ll notice a difference in your waistline in no time!

Blood Sugar Control with Fiber-Rich Foods

Ozempic works by stabilizing your blood sugar and helping prevent spikes in your insulin levels. Having stable blood sugar is important to losing weight by promoting the burning of fat and preventing insulin spikes. These cause your body to hold onto more of its fat storage. But, eating foods that are high in fiber will do wonders in helping stabilize that blood sugar and keep you on track. Here are some examples of fiber-rich foods to include in your diet:

• Oats
  Oats contain around 8 grams of fiber in a 1-cup serving and are extremely versatile. Try making oatmeal with your favorite fruits for breakfast. Or you could even mix it up by making oatmeal and banana pancakes!
• Legumes
  Legumes include such foods as beans, peas, and lentils. They provide you with a large serving of fiber and are an easy addition to any meal. They are lower-calorie and high-protein, as well, making them a great and easy snack for on-the-go. Packing some peanuts for snacking throughout the day or adding a portion of green beans to your dinner are easy ways to get your fiber intake up.
• Dark chocolate
  The idea of eating chocolate to help lose weight may sound strange, but a 100-gram bar of dark chocolate contains around 11 grams of fiber! It is also lower in sugar than other chocolate options like milk chocolate. Indulge your sweet tooth and have some dark chocolate and berries for dessert to keep your daily fiber on track.

Curbing Appetite and Cravings with Protein-Rich Foods

Drugs like Ozempic promote increased satiety throughout the day to prevent overeating. However, eating a diet that is high in protein can already help you stay full and keep those cravings in check! Having enough protein will also help boost your metabolism to keep you in fat-burning mode while keeping your muscles nourished. Try reaching for these examples:

• Greek yogurt
  Greek yogurt is extremely high in protein,. The average serving contains 100 calories and 17 grams of protein. You can enjoy greek yogurt with some of your favorite granola as a fulfilling snack. Another option is to blend it with some of your favorite fruits for a yummy smoothie. 
• Salmon
  Salmon is a delicious and wonderful way to get your protein. Each 100-gram serving contains 25 grams of protein. It also has a great amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce appetite and cravings as well. Try a piece of grilled salmon for dinner, add some smoked salmon to your breakfast bagel, or even enjoy a salmon and avocado sushi roll!
• Eggs
  Eggs are one of the most versatile food options around and are packed with protein. One egg contains around 6 grams of protein. Reach for a hard-boiled egg for a snack when you’re on the go, or try blending eggs and cottage cheese together, throw in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and spinach, and bake them in a muffin tin. You’ll have delicious egg bites that are full of protein and will keep you full for hours.

Improved Digestion with Healthy Fats

The idea of eating more fats to help you lose weight doesn’t sound accurate, but healthy fats can do wonders for your waistline and overall health. It’s scientifically proven that when you consume enough healthy fats, your digestion slows down. Therefore, you can feel satiated for much longer without having to grab another snack, keeping your calories for the day in check. Some great examples to try include:

• Avocados
  Avocados are extremely high in monounsaturated fats, which are amazing for your overall health and digestion. Studies have even shown that people who eat avocados are on average 7.5 pounds lighter than those who don’t. This may be because of their digestion-aiding properties and their ability to keep you fuller for longer. A great and easy way to enjoy avocado is by mashing one up and adding some onion, tomato, salt, and lime to make guacamole!
• Olive oil
  In moderation, adding olive oil to your meals is a great way to get your healthy fats in. Use it to sauté vegetables, grill some lean meats, or even toss it with some of your favorite pasta as an easy and delicious dinner addition.
• Nuts
  Nuts like almonds and pistachios are a yummy and quick snack to include in your daily diet. They keep you fuller for longer by slowing quick-digestion, and even have protein, as well! Try chopping up some almonds to include in your favorite salads, or you could even enjoy an almond-butter and jelly sandwich on whole wheat bread.

Empower Your Choices with The Difference

Getting in your daily fiber, protein, and healthy fats can do wonders in helping you shed those extra pounds and keep your cravings in check. Before you visit your doctor in hopes of a prescription, try implementing these foods into your daily meals and snacks. Losing weight doesn’t have to be a pain in your side, it can be enjoyable and easy without the side effects!  And if you are on a weight journey, don’t forget to track your weight changes and consumption using technology like The Difference.

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/high-fiber-foods/art-20050948

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/oats

https://texomacareweightloss.com/blog/blood-sugar-levels-and-weight-loss

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/high-protein-foods

https://loveonetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Love-One-Today-NHANES-Scientific-Summary1.pdf