Why wait until after the Holidays to lose weight? Kick start your nutrition before the New Year with CNK’s Top 10 Slimming Foods, as featured online in Arizona Foothills Magazine!

1. Avocado
Avocados are power foods, rich in antioxidants, monounsaturated fat, potassium, vitamin E, minerals, enzymes and fiber. In fact, one avocado contains 35% more potassium than a banana. Now that you’ve got the scoop, get a spoon and dig in! Enjoy with sea salt, sliced onto salads or mashed into dressings.

2. Berries
Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries are loaded with antioxidants, phytochemicals, vitamin C and fiber. Enjoy organic berries by the handful, tossed in salads or added to smoothies.

3. Coconut Oil
Eat this fat to reduce body fat. That’s right! Coconut oil is a great source of metabolism-boosting medium chain fatty acids that support weight loss. Along with its immune-enhancing lauric acid, this unique saturated fat also contains anti-viral, anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties. Use unrefined, organic coconut oil to sauté meats and veggies or add raw to smoothies for an extra creamy consistency.

4. Cruciferous Vegetables
Cabbage family veggies like cabbage, kale, chard, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower are great low-carb, high-fiber sources of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. These nutritional powerhouses support the immune system, help with overall detoxification, increase energy, improve heart health, help fight cancer and decrease body fat. Enjoy local, organic veggies sautéed in coconut oil, or juiced/blended in a juicer or Vitamix.

5. Grass-fed Meat
Grass-fed meats, such as beef or bison, are excellent sources of metabolism-boosting protein. Compared to grain-fed, grass-fed meats are lower in total fat, 60% higher in omega-3s, contain 10 times more beta-carotene, provide 4 times more vitamin E and have 5 times more cancer-fighting conjugated linoleic acid.

6. Olive Oil
Cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil is a great source of heart healthy monounsaturated fat and the antioxidant vitamin E. Enjoyed raw drizzled on salads or cooked veggies,

7. Onions
Loaded with nutrients such as vitamins C, B1, B6, K, biotin, folic acid, chromium, and fiber, onions are well worth the tears to prepare them. They’re also an excellent source of flavonoids, especially anti-inflammatory quercetin that’s especially helpful with seasonal allergies.

8. Stevia
Stevia, an all-natural herb, is an excellent sugar substitute that contains zero carbs and zero calories. Use 100% natural Stevia to add sweetness and flavor to beverages, side dishes, salad dressings, homemade condiments or desserts.

9. Walnuts
Perfect for packing as a snack, adding to salads or drizzling with honey for a healthier indulgence, walnuts are a good source of omega-3s, antioxidants, vitamin E, fiber, manganese, copper, phosphorous, magnesium and monounsaturated fat.

10. Wild Salmon
Rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and increase mental performance, wild salmon is also a great source of complete protein that aids weight loss and increases lean muscle mass.  Enjoy salmon for an easy breakfast, tossed in a salad for a quick lunch or served with fresh veggies for a delicious dinner.

“Make The Turn” Nutrition programs facilitated by CNK. Click here to learn more.