If you’re aiming to burn some more fat, but seem to be making little progress, these foods can be your ally in winning the battle of the bulge.

Almonds: Dieters who ate 3 ounces of these little nuts a day reduced their weight and body mass index by a solid 18%!  Why?  Scientists say almonds have a high concentrate of alpha-linolenic acid, which can speed up your metabolism.  Don’t over-indulge; stick to about 12 per serving.

Berries: These sweet little tikes, especially strawberries and raspberries are loaded with Vitamin C, which can help you burn up to 30% more fat while you exercise.  A quick and easy but yummy addition to your salad – blend a cup of these berries and a fourth of a cup of balsamic vinegar.

Cinnamon: The usual sugar companion can make your waistline slimmer! By sprinkling ¼ teaspoon of Cinnamon on your food, you can prevent a postmeal insulin spike – which normally is your body’s indicator it should store some more fat instead of burning it.  Add a dash to your yogurt, toast or coffee.

Mustard: The yellow color of mustard isn’t there because it’s pretty; it’s also evidence of a fat fighting spice – turmeric!  Recent studies prove that this spice may slow the growth of fat tissues.  Give this tangy condiment a chance!  Substitute mustard for the mayo on your sandwiches.  Not only will you combat fat, but it’s also significantly less in calories than mayo.

Oranges: This citrus fruit contains fat fighters called flavones.  Women who ate more flavones-rich foods had lower increase in body fat over a period of time.  Oranges are so convenient, just peel and eat!  If you prefer the juice, make sure you get it with pulp.

Soybeans: Well known to most of us, soybeans are a great food!!  Rich in the fat blocker choline, adding them to a salad or eating them out of the pod make a tasty treat!

Sweet Potatoes: Instead of regular baked potatoes, try baking a sweet one up!  You don’t even need to add anything to it; their natural juice makes them already tasty.  These guys are high in fiber, which means no insulin spikes, good for the hips!

Swiss cheese: Good to see cheese made it on the list.  This holy cheese is the Holy Grail of fat fighting!  Calcium rich foods, particularly Swiss, reduce fat-producing enzymes and increase fat breakdown. Put this tangy cheese on a sandwich or paired with tomatoes and high-fiber crackers.

The Puryear team is committed to staying active and healthy.  If you're still trying to start a work-out routine but are having a hard time committing to a great place or do want to pay money for a gym membership, Houston is loaded with beautiful parks and walking trails.  Check out our Health and Fitness Page to see what's out there or get you pointed in the right direction.