What is body fat
Fat is a very important component of the human body which supplies a greater quantity of energy compared to carbohydrates and proteins; it is estimated that they supply twice the amount of energy compared to proteins and carbohydrates of equal mass. Fat is not all that bad, as most people think. Apart from providing energy, it is of great value to the endocrine (hormonal) system, acts as an insulator of the body and it also acts as a cushion for the internal organs of the body.
However, too much body fat posses a number of health challenges which if not checked, may result to obesity and other cardiac diseases. There are normal ranges of body fat levels which differ from individuals to individuals. The difference in these levels may be influenced by a number of factors, which may include age, sex and also race. For age, as one grows old, the totals body fat levels tend to increase. This may be attributed by the fact that metabolic reactions slows down with age. As a result, individuals of the same height and from the same race and sex may record varying body fat levels. It is a fact that women have a relatively higher levels of fat compared to men. The main reason for this is that their hormonal demand is higher than that of men.
Nutritional guidance proves to be the only long term solution to overweight/obese individuals as it is the only way that is affordable by people of all classes of life all over the world. Surprisingly, these health challenges are becoming a thing of global concern.
Below is a list of foods that if eaten on a frequent basis, may help to lower the high amount of body fat. All these foods share common characteristics which are a high fiber content, low sugar levels and rich in vitamins and minerals. They include:
- Vegetables
The use of raw and organically grown vegetable has been identified as a major contributing measure in burning down of body fat. Vegetables have very high fiber content as a result they increase metabolic rate of the body. There is also a feeling of fullness of the stomach thus reduced caloric intake.
- Whole Grains
Whole grains such as brown rice and oatmeal offer a high source of nutrients. When taken in small quantities, they prevent the body from accumulating more fat. The high fiber level also contributes to a faster metabolic rate.
- Legumes
Beans and all other types of legumes are a good source of protein. The protein intake promotes muscle building which intern facilitates the burning of more fat.
- Hot Peppers
Hot peppers are known to fasten the rate of metabolism. As a result, more fat is burnt by people who use it freely compared to non-users. They also have the property of reducing cravings.
- Green tea
Green tea has been scientifically proved to boost the metabolic activity of the body. It is also an excellent source of antioxidants which gets rid of harmful radicals in the body. For this reason, green tea has been of help in fighting cancer.
- Vegetable soups
Vegetable soups offer very nutritious fluids rich in mineral and vitamins. They also have an appetite-reducing property which eventually lowers excess food intake
- Grapefruit
This kind of fruit has a low sugar level with a lot of water. It is also known to have high vitamin C levels which are also an important antioxidant.
- Natural spices.
This may include Garlic, ginger, cinnamon and even cayenne. These have a direct impact on the metabolic rate.
- Peanut Butter.
This is a good source of protein. They also promote the synthesis of the hormone testosterone, a booster in muscle building. When more muscles are built, there are more rooms for the burning of fats, as a result less fat in the body.
- Berries
Berries have the property of causing satiety and also prevent cravings.
