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To decrease your weight on the scale, a straightforward yet efficient method is to include more high-fiber foods in your meals. Fiber plays a crucial role in weight loss because it aids in digestion and boosts satiety, preventing excessive eating and ensuring you feel full and satisfied, ultimately supporting your weight loss goals.
Fiber is a form of carbohydrate exclusively found in plants. Although fiber cannot be digested by your body, it functions as a natural purifier for your digestive system. There are two primary types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water, creating a gel-like substance in the digestive system and serving as a food source for the beneficial bacteria in your gut microbiome. In contrast, insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and increases the volume of your stool, promoting regular bowel movements. Both types of fiber contribute to weight loss by assisting in blood sugar regulation, enhancing digestion, and fostering feelings of fullness.
Furthermore, foods rich in fiber typically require more chewing, which can help you eat at a slower pace and allow your body more time to recognize when it’s full. High-fiber options such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are usually lower in calories, making them a fantastic choice for individuals looking to lose weight.
Chia Seeds
Fiber per 1-ounce serving: 10 grams
They may be tiny, but chia seeds are nutritional powerhouses. Packed with fiber, protein, and plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, they can absorb water and expand in your stomach, helping you feel full and satisfied. However, chia seeds also provide 138 calories per ounce, so Moody recommends being mindful of your intake to avoid overconsuming calories. “Chia seeds are calorie-dense, so watch your portions,” says Moody. Keep your portions to 1 or 2 tablespoons, which delivers 51 or 102 calories, respectfully.
Lentils
Fiber per 1 cup serving (cooked): 16 grams
Lentils are a fantastic weight loss food because they’re packed with both soluble and insoluble fiber. At 18 grams per cup, they’re also rich in protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied. “Legumes are known for their high fiber content, and lentils are among the most fiber-rich foods in the pulses family,” says Moody. “They’re a versatile food that can fit almost anywhere in a weight loss diet, with the ability to add them to nearly any savory dish, from soups to salads to sides.”
Raspberries
Fiber per 1 cup serving: 8 grams
While berries in general are excellent sources of fiber, raspberries take the crown as the berry with the most fiber, tied with blackberries. “The antioxidant levels in berries are among the highest of any food,” Moody explains. “Berries are a great snack to have while trying to lose weight, and you can eat a large portion of them to satisfy a craving for dessert, with none of the refined sugar and lack of fiber that comes with most sweets.”
Collard Greens
Fiber per 1 cup serving: 8 grams
These leafy greens are both delicious and nutritious. Beyond their high fiber content, collard greens contain essential vitamins and minerals that help support healthy weight loss.
“Collard greens are rich in antioxidants and vitamins K, C, and A. One cup of cooked collards has only about 65 calories, making them perfect for weight loss. Enjoy them raw as a base for a salad or cook them up in scrambled eggs, stir-fries, or casseroles,” says Moody.
Artichokes
Fiber per 1 medium artichoke serving: 7 grams
Artichokes are a low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable that studies have found can help regulate blood sugar. “Artichokes are somewhat of a forgotten veggie, more often associated with creamy spinach dips,” says Moody. “However, artichokes are low in calories and are a great source of vitamin C and folate. Their high fiber content comes from a fiber type called inulin, an effective prebiotic that can help promote healthy gut bacteria.”
Sweet Potato with Skin
Fiber per 1 cup serving: 7 grams
Next time you bake sweet potatoes or make homemade fries, be sure to keep the skin on. A 2022 study found that the fibers in sweet potato peels can promote gut health by boosting short-chain fatty acid production. “If you’re looking to add more fiber to your diet, don’t peel your potatoes,” Moody advises. “The peel contains half the potato’s fiber and can add some nice texture to dishes.”
Pears
Fiber per 1 medium pear serving: 6 grams
Pears are a juicy, sweet fruit that Moody says contains soluble and insoluble fiber for weight loss. She adds, “Pears are high in a fiber called pectin, which research suggests can improve gut health, boost immune function, and prevent constipation. One medium pear contains only 100 calories, making them a great weight loss snack between meals.”
Quinoa
Fiber per 1 cup serving: 5 grams
Besides delivering a healthy dose of fiber per serving, quinoa is also a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids your body cannot produce on its own. Quinoa’s high protein content can also help keep you satiated between meals to reduce snacking. “Fiber doesn’t just have to come from fruits and vegetables; it can also come from our beloved carbs, too,” says Moody. Quinoa is a wonderful example of a whole grain high in fiber.
Air-Popped Popcorn
Fiber per 3-cup serving: 4 grams
When made without added butter or oil, air-popped popcorn is a high-fiber, low-calorie snack. Research suggests eating whole-grain popcorn as an alternative to traditional snacks like chips or crackers to support healthy weight management. Moody says, “Popcorn is arguably one of the best snacks for weight loss due to the amount of volume it takes up in the stomach for a relatively low number of calories. Plus, it’s a fun and satisfying snack to reach for when late-night cravings strike.”
Brussels Sprouts
Fiber per 1 cup serving: 3 grams
Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable rich in fiber and a health-promoting compound called sulforaphane. A 2022 animal study found that sulforaphane can reduce obesity and help moderate food intake. Plus, they’re delicious when cooked just right. Moody says, “Brussels sprouts are irresistible when roasted and incredibly low in calories.”
