Thứ Ba, 2 tháng 12, 2014

6 Fall Foods That Will Help You Lose Weight

By Brianna Steinhilber

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Fall Foods That Are Waistline-Friendly

When you hear "fall foods," what comes to mind? Pumpkin pie? Gravy? Stews, pot roast, and turkey? Whatever you associate with fall fare, chances are that healthy doesn't top the list. But maybe it should! The right foods can help you shed pounds and autumn's produce is no exception. Here are the best foods to eat right now: They'll keep you slim while still allowing you to indulge in all of the delicious dishes the season has to offer.
Spaghetti Squash

Move over butternut, there's another healthy squash in season. Spaghetti squash is a dieter's dream; with the shape and texture of pasta, but a fraction of the carbs and calories, it's a great way to satisfy pasta cravings without any guilt. If you're a Bolognese lover, this recipe for Spaghetti Squash With Chunky Tomato Sauce will hit the spot, or try this Sweet Spaghetti Squash recipe for a bowl of savory, fall goodness for under 100 calories!
Apples

The popular fall fruit is rich in fiber and low in calories, making for a yummy snack that keeps you full without adding to your calorie count. While apples make a smart, portable snack as is, they also work in a variety of recipes. Satisfy your sweet tooth with this Apple Cake With Hot Coconut-Brown Sugar Topping — a perfect light after-dinner treat or a sweet morning meal. Or bring apples to the dinner menu with a tangy twist on coleslaw, great as a side dish or as a topping on your favorite burger or sandwich. For a savory, fall-inspired carb, whip up some Apple Raisin Risotto — a nutritious take on the classic dish.
Sweet Potatoes

Sweet and colorful, this starchy veggie makes a perfect substitute for your classic Idaho. While it isn't dramatically lower in calories, it's higher in fiber and packs in more protein, which fills you up faster, allowing you to eat less overall. Try these Smashed Sweet Potatoes for a healthy twist on classic mash, or go savory with Sweet Potato Casserole for a sweet take on dinner or a delicious breakfast option. For all the French fry-lovers out there, be sure to bake up a batch of these Crispy Sweet Potato Fries!
Brussels Sprouts

If you're looking to cut back on calories without sacrificing flavor, sprouts are your new best friend. They're loaded with filling fiber, so you can stave off the after-supper snack craving. Replace your standard side of rice for a helping of Brussels Sprouts With Chestnuts and Sage. The buttery dish is satisfying and delicious, but will save you tons of calories with just 68 per serving! Or spice things up with this recipe for Brussels Sprouts With Bacon-Horseradish Cream. If the shape or texture turns your family off, give these Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Onions a try — they don't even have to know they're eating sprouts!
Cauliflower

Low in calories and rich in vitamins and nutrients, it's no mystery why cauliflower is a go-to fall food when it comes to our health. The cruciferous veggie is extremely versatile: It's an outstanding side dish when roasted (like in this Thyme Pork Chops with Roasted Cauliflower) and has the ability to soak up delicious spices and flavors (as it does in this Indian-Spiced Eggplant and Cauliflower Stew recipe). Most notable is its ability to aid in weight-loss as a sub for mashed potatoes. The flavor is delicious and strikingly similar to the traditional potato, while cutting back on calories, carbs, and cholesterol. Simply blend cooked cauliflower with some sea salt, low-fat sour cream, and olive oil and you have yourself a delish mash remix!
Pears

Just like the apple, pears are full of fiber and low in calories, delivering a sweetly satisfying snack without the weight woes. Try this Pear Ginger Cheesecake or Pear Crumble for a dessert that goes overboard in flavor, but not fat. For some delicious and unexpected appetizer recipes, serve Pear and Dried Apricot Salsa and Pear and Blue Cheese Flatbread — your guests will be begging for the recipes!