It’s a common belief that cutting carbs is essential for weight loss. However, weight loss coach Melissa challenges this notion, explaining that it’s entirely possible to maintain a calorie deficit while including carbs in your daily diet.
In an Instagram post shared on July 4, she highlighted how carbohydrates aren’t as detrimental to weight loss progress as they’re often made out to be.
“Carbs are not the enemy. Complex carbs are great for fat because they have fiber and keep you full longer while in a calorie deficit,” Melissa wrote.
Melissa further shared the list of carb-rich foods that she consumes daily for faster fat loss:
1. Oats:
Contain a soluble fiber that slows digestion and keeps you full longer, reduces appetite and curbs snacking. Oats are packed with magnesium, iron, B vitamins, and plant-based protein.
How to have it: Make overnight oats or add protein powder to your quick oatmeal in the morning.
2. Whole-grain bread
High in fiber and slows digestion which promotes fullness and improves digestion. It also contains B vitamins, iron, magnesium and antioxidants that are stripped from other breads.
How to have it: Eat as toast with eggs or for your sandwich at lunch.
3. Non-starchy vegetables
Ex: Broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, kale, zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus. These are very low in calories but high in fiber and water that fills you up! Also, helps regulate blood sugar and reduce cravings.
How to have it: Fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables at lunch and dinner.
4. Fruit
Naturally sweet, rich in fiber and antioxidants, low in calories and helps control sweets cravings.
How to have it: Eat as a snack with nut butter or Greek yogurt. Add to smoothies, oatmeal, or salads.
5. Sweet potatoes
Contain fiber and slow-digesting carbs; this keeps you fuller longer. Also, rich in antioxidants and nutrients.
How to have it: Eat as carb with breakfast, lunch or dinner because they are so versatile.
6. Brown, basmati or jasmine rice
Rice is easily digested, gluten free and provides a slow and steady source of glucose. This means it is great before or after a workout!
How to have it: Mix with cauliflower rice to get a huge portion that’s full of water. This can fill you up for a long time.