Diet and Obesity

In recent decades, Obesity has been cited as one of the major health issues in the United States; in fact it has grown so rapidly that it is called as an Obesity Epidemic. Researches have shown that two-thirds of the American population is obese or overweight and with this rapid growth of obesity, by 2020, three out of four Americans will be obese!

Sounds bit scary, but if we take proper action now, this calamity can be averted. A balanced and nutritious diet combined with regular exercise can help you reduce and/or manage your weight.

Many of us are under the impression that an obesity diet will force us to eat boring, bland and tasteless food. But this is completely untrue, as even while following an obesity diet, you can enjoy a variety of your favorite foods, cooked in a healthy way flavored in healthy herbs and spices.

But most of us are confused on what food to eat, as every few days a new diet pops up showing how to lose weight! In reality, there is no need to follow any fancy diet; just follow the age old saying – Eat healthy and exercise regularly – and you will be fit and fine!

Food for Obesity

Complex carbohydrates – To fight obesity, foods considered to be complex carbohydrates should be introduced in your diet. Whole grains like oats, brown rice, millets, rye; vegetables like carrots, onion, peas, turnips; beans like kidney beans, white beans, Garbanzo bean, Navy beans and fruits like apples, strawberries, apricots, prunes are good sources of complex carbohydrates.

Fiber – Fibers are very important constituent of obesity diet as they help in digesting the food properly. Foods like lentils, beans, brown rice, nuts, whole meal bread, wheat and corn bran, dried fruit, seeds, fruits and vegetables with skins, are good sources of healthy fibers.

Healthy fats – You may find it surprising to see fats in the list, but a little amount of fat is necessary for the body to function properly. But make sure you eat healthy fats and not gorge on an extra-cheese burger! Fishes like salmon, herring, mackerel; olive, peanut, canola, sunflower, safflower oils; flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, almonds, walnuts are all good sources of healthy fats.

Right proteins – Proteins help you to drop the unwanted pounds and also keep your tummy full. Egg white, low fat dairy products, white meat, lean beef, beans, seafood are excellent sources of the right kind of protein needed for your obesity diet.

So next time you see a yummy chocolate cake or a mayonnaise filled taco, control your temptation and go for a plate of fruits instead; because in the end the fruit plate will make you feel more happier and look better!