Pesky weight gain problems affect millions of people around the globe, prompting an ever-increasing number to cut back on their diet in an attempt to get thinner. But it’s easier said than done, isn’t it? Working out and abstaining from tempting fatty foods can be a struggle, and many fall off the wagon early on in their weight loss efforts.
One of the reasons it is so tough to stay fit is because individuals replace fulfilling meals with bland – often ‘airy’ – salads. Then, there’s the unpleasant practice of breaking a sweat. However, the latter isn’t as big an issue as the former. In fact, losing weight is more dependent on what you put in your body than the hours you spend at the gym, just head over to Weightloss Fitness & Health to see! Think about it – why are most Asians not overweight? Is it because they exercise more? No! It’s all about eating the right foods.
Going on a diet should not have to feel like torture, and when done right, it doesn’t. When it comes to getting the right nutrients and ditching unhealthy snacks, dried fruits are the most underrated category of foods out there. Primarily because they taste sweet, people assume that they should stay away. In reality, it’s the opposite. Here’s how.
Staying thin is about getting the ‘good’ out of everything. Simply put, unless you’re going keto or doing something similar, you should be eating a moderate amount of fat and carbohydrates alike. Dried fruits are generally considered to be high-carb, which is true. But, people forget that they contain naturally occurring complex carbohydrates as opposed to simple carbohydrates found in processed foods and desserts. Moreover, these are complemented by dietary fiber, which is great for gut health and weight loss.
So, if you’re eager to overcome the urge to snack, and shed some of those unwanted pounds, read on ahead. This list covers the best-dried fruits you should be eating every day.
Best Dried Fruits For Weight Loss
1. Almonds
Tired of feeling hungry all the time? Eat almonds!
Almonds are a rich source of vital minerals like magnesium, vitamin E and K, manganese, zinc, and copper. Some might argue that almonds should be avoided because they’re high in fat. It’s important to understand that these dry fruits are packed with good monounsaturated fats, which are essential for a healthy body.
Additionally, almonds have some of the most powerful metabolism-boosting properties. Their fatty acid content helps speed up the rate at which your body burns fat, and if that’s not enough, having a handful of almonds can effectively curb hunger.
Several research studies prove that individuals who incorporate almonds into their diets do not report gaining any extra weight. That is if other things are kept constant.
If you aren’t too fond of their taste, don’t just ditch almonds altogether. You can chop them up and put them in a salad or whiz a bunch in the food processor to make some good old almond butter. The latter is a great technique to get your daily intake, and if you put it on toast, it’s a much healthier alternative than any other sugary spread.
2. Dates
Found on lush trees in most Middle Eastern countries, dates are one of the sweetest dried fruits there are. Fortunately, when consumed in moderate quantities, these do not harm your weight loss efforts in any way. 
Dates are chockfull of nutrients including magnesium, potassium iron, calcium, sodium, vitamin B6, and potassium. There are various types of this dehydrated fruit on the market, the most popular one being ‘Medjool’. If you’re someone who just can’t quit eating sugar, eat some dates to satiate your sweet tooth. On average, a person can eat between 3 to 4 dates per day without experiencing an increase in their weight.
For people who work out, the vitamin B5 found in dates helps boost stamina, which means they can last longer during strenuous workouts. Furthermore, dates are loaded with good fats and protein, both of which combine to accelerate weight loss.
3. Goji berries
Used as a staple in Chinese medicine for centuries, goji berries are making a modern comeback on accord of their healthful properties. Nutritionists believe that they help prevent cancer risk, heart disease, premature aging, and stimulate metabolism. 
Those are some really huge claims but the great part is that these dried berries are worth every praise.
They contain moderate to high amounts of protein, fiber, vitamin A and B, selenium, zinc, and thiamine. So, if you snack on these berries, you can expect to stay full for a while. They are also high in fiber and protein – the two essential components of a healthy diet.
Additionally, goji berries are crammed with antioxidants that reduce inflammation. Their texture and taste are similar to raisins which is why they can replace the latter in most recipes. Or, you can even use them to brew tea! Either way, sticking to goji berries is a good idea.
4. Walnuts
Studies have found that individuals who eat moderate quantities of walnuts regularly are less prone to obesity. This superfood is a powerhouse of important nutrients and is quite capable of keeping the figure on the scale low.
With a tonne of alpha-linolenic acid, omega 3, protein, fiber, and magnesium, you can easily rely on these nuts to keep you healthy. Like almonds, they can curb appetite and stop you from gorging on sugary foods. To top it off, eating walnuts is great for heart health and diabetes control. And if you suffer from the latter, you know how disabling the condition can be when you’re trying to lose weight.
The Verdict
In retrospect, dried fruits are an excellent source of energy and when consumed within a protein-rich diet, can support weight loss. They are rich in vital nutrients, thus, supply the human body with countless benefits otherwise lost through traditional snacking. Needless to say, it’s high time everyone debunks the notion that dried fruits make you fat. Rather, when consumed properly, they not only improve overall health but increase endurance, keep you satiated for longer periods and help reduce body weight.
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