7 slimming comfort foods

Top foods that will fill you up, keep cravings down and still help you lose weight.

Updated:: 2009-11-06 12:51

Published:: 2009-11-06 00:00

By: Dr. Joey Shulman

Foods 1-4

Cold weather has a way of making you stay in for cozy nights as you seek comfort and warmth. Instead of craving raw vegetables, fruits and frozen drinks, you may be drawn to comfort foods such as breads, pastas, soups and stews. If you want to lose weight over the colder months, don't panic -- there are a variety of healthy comfort foods that can contribute to weight loss.

1. Spaghetti squash
Who doesn't love a big plate of pasta? Unfortunately, eating excessive amounts of white pasta can contribute to weight gain and bloating. Instead of white pasta, try some delicious spaghetti squash loaded with heart-healthy tomato sauce. Simply scoop out the inside of a squash, sprinkle it with olive oil and bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. Add your favourite tomato sauce and a protein source such as lean chicken, turkey, beef or soy and enjoy.

2. Beans
From black beans and navy beans to lentils and chickpeas, beans are loaded with fibre, which makes them filling and excellent for digestion. They are also low on the glycemic index and will not cause weight gain. Add beans to salads, chilies and omelets or eat them in dips such as hummus.

3. Nuts and seeds
Almonds, walnuts and sesame seeds are loaded with omega-3 essential fats or "good fats." They are filling and packed with nutrition and won't make blood sugar levels fluctuate, which can leading to weight gain. Try to get half a handful of nuts per day into your diet.

4. Oatmeal
This “stick to your ribs” food offers wonderful weight-loss potential because it's filling and low on the glycemic index. Plus, oatmeal contains soluble fibre, which binds to bile and helps to lower cholesterol. For an extra boost, top your oatmeal with some disease-fighting berries such as blueberries, strawberries or raspberries.

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