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Bad Foods That Are Good for Weight Loss

There is so much confusion about which foods are "bad" and which foods are "good" that sometimes perfectly good foods get a bad reputation. Surprisingly, some of the foods that experts had convinced us were bad for our health have turned out to be beneficial for weight loss.

  1. Red Meat

    • A recent study in Australia found that women who ate diets rich in lean red meat protein, such as sirloin steak, lost more weight than those who ate diets that were lower in protein and higher in carbohydrates. Because protein takes longer to digest, it will help you feel fuller longer and reduce hunger pangs that lead to overeating.

    Whole Milk and Cheese

    • Although it was once believed to be too high in fat for anyone trying to lose weight, regular whole-milk dairy products are now considered to be an aid for dieters. Scientists in Sweden found that women who ate at least one serving of whole-fat dairy per day gained less weight than women who didn't. The compound conjugated linoleic acid found in milk] is the hidden weight-loss booster.

    Eggs

    • In the mid 1980s, eggs were banished from the American breakfast table because of their high cholesterol content and the assumption that they raise the body's cholesterol. Now, further research has shown that this assumption was false, and dieters are encouraged to consume eggs with their breakfasts once again. The protein in eggs decreases hunger and increases the feeling of satiety. Eggs also contain all eight essential amino acids.

    Peanut Butter

    • Studies have shown that monounsaturated fats, like those found in peanut butter, aid in weight loss. In addition, the monounsaturated fats are heart-healthy and can lower your levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol. Look for brands of peanut butter that contain no unhealthful trans fats.

    Chocolate

    • Chocolate can actually be good for you, provided that you stay away from the sugary, over-processed kind. Pure chocolate, or cacao, contains antioxidants and chemicals that raise the levels of serotonin in your body. These feel-good chemicals improve your mood and suppress your appetite. It also can raise your energy levels and help give you that much-needed afternoon boost to get through the rest of the day.

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