Recent Studies Identify Wonder Foods That Speed Weight Loss

When you?re looking for a method to help you achieve fast, effective weight loss, food probably isn?t at the top of your list of potential candidates. Because overeating is the most likely source of excess weight, most dieters don?t believe that food can help them regain a svelte figure.

However, according to the results of several recent studies, it appears that certain kinds of foods can, in actuality, increase the effectiveness of weight loss efforts. Even several foods once considered taboo among dieters can facilitate successful slimming when eaten in moderation. This week, we?ll review research into several foods that may be able to help you in your quest to shed a few extra pounds.

Dairy Products May Be a Dieter?s Best Friend

Perhaps you?ve seen the TV commercials touting the role of dairy products such as milk and yogurt as part of a weight-loss effort. Although it may sound too good to be true, several recent studies have confirmed that it may in fact be possible to have your yogurt and eat it, too -- as long as it?s low-fat.

In truth, it?s not the dairy products themselves, but the high levels of calcium they contain that can help speed weight loss efforts. According to researchers, higher daily calcium intake is linked to lower weight gain, better success at maintaining a steady weight, and decreased risk of developing insulin resistance, all of which can be important in weight loss efforts.

These results were particularly significant for postmenopausal women, for whom healthy weight maintenance can often be a frustrating challenge. However, researchers caution that those seeking to lose weight should eat a balanced, calorie-controlled diet with moderate, but consistent consumption of low-fat dairy products.

Chocoholics Rejoice Over News of Dark Chocolate?s Health Benefits

Although chocolate was once widely regarded as a dangerous enemy for many dieters, recent research has identified a number of health benefits that are associated with moderate consumption of the darker varieties of the sweet treat.

The health benefits that have repeatedly been linked to daily dark chocolate nibbling include lowered blood pressure, blood clot prevention, and circulatory flexibility and efficiency. From a weight-loss perspective, dark chocolate?s documented ability to increase insulin sensitivity is its most important property. Reduced insulin sensitivity is often identified as a culprit in obesity, and it is also a risk factor for the development of Type II diabetes.

However, make sure you don?t try to have too much of a good thing. In order to maximize the health and weight-loss benefits of dark chocolate, it is important to strictly limit your daily consumption. Experts say a sliver weighing as little as six grams is enough to get the most of dark chocolate?s health-boosting properties. Still, because of dark chocolate?s characteristic richness and flavor intensity, even this amount can be enough to satisfy a craving for sweets.

When it Comes to Dieting, Beans May Be Magical After All

You?re probably already aware that beans are among nature?s healthiest food sources. Packed with proteins, fiber, and vitamins, low in calories, and naturally fat-free, beans are already a great way to get on the path to a healthy weight.

But recent research has shown that certain types of beans may be particularly helpful for those seeking to shed a few extra pounds. An extract of a chemical compound found naturally in white kidney beans has been linked with benefits ranging from reduced starch absorption to increased digestive efficiency.

The special component is similar to a pancreatic compound known as alpha amylase. This substance regulates the absorption of starch and carbohydrates by the body. Studies have shown that individuals who take supplements with the bean-based version of alpha amylase absorb less of the harmful starches that are most easily converted to sugar in the bloodstream, often resulting in weight gain.

Because the supplement form of the enzyme is a super-concentrated version of the ingredient found naturally in white kidney beans, it is recommended for serious dieters. However, if you have just a few pounds to lose or if you have already reached the maintenance phase of your weight loss journey, it may be enough to add more beans into your regular diet.

Before making significant changes to your diet, check with a licensed physician. And check back each week for more of the research news that can put you on the path to weight loss success!