7 Things to Eat That Won't Make You Fat

When it comes to foods that are good for you and those that are fattening and will ruin your diet, we all know about the obvious ones (no cream cakes, fast food etc) but sometimes, it can feel like you just don't know what you are able to eat that won't ruin your diet.

Last week we spoke about the importance of keeping a food diary to help you see exactly what’s going on with your food routine.

Hopefully you’ve had a chance to note down what you've been eating so I thought it would be useful today to offer you some changes to consider following your discoveries with your diary.

1. Water- Sometimes when you think you’re hungry, you’re actually thirsty. Drink water regularly throughout the day so that you always know if you feel hungry, it is actually time to grab something to eat and not your thirst talking. Water is the dieters friend.

2. Fish- A great source of protein which is filling without loads of saturated fat. Oily fish contain essential fatty acids which are good for you as they actually help the body metabolize fat and control weight. Try and eat fish at least twice a week and give your fat burning a helping hand.

3. Raw vegetables- Lettuce, broccoli and carrots are a great way to get lots of vitamins and nutrients and they also require lots of chewing which means you eat more slowly which means you eat less. Try to have greens on your plate for lunch and dinner everyday.

4. Coffee- Can help your body to burn fat more effectively but only if its plain, black coffee. Avoid milk and avoid sugar and stick to one or two cups per day. Don't fall into the trap of ordering a skinny latte - the name is skinny, the impact on you won't be.

5. Apples- Or pears, or indeed any other type of fruit. Eat one portion at the beginning of every meal. This will help you achieve your 5-a-day but will also stimulate your ability to feel full and make sure you eat less at each mealtime. Try keeping 3 pieces of fruit on your desk each day and every time you fancy a snack, grab one instead of heading to the vending machine.

6. Fibre- From bran, beans or wholemeal bread. Plenty of fibre keeps your digestive system in good shape which means that whatever you consume can be processed and broken down efficiently. Remember, better out than in!

7. Nuts and seeds- Almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and flaxseed. High in energy, high in fibre, filling and nutritious, nuts and seeds are the best snack you can opt for in a busy day. Just a few at a time will prevent you reaching for cookies, chocolate, sweets or cakes. Try having a handful of seeds after every piece of fruit.