When it comes to losing weight, what you eat matters and choosing the best raw fruits and vegetables for that purpose can make a big difference.
New research shows that selecting the best raw fruits and vegetables for weight loss and mental health helps. In fact, the difference is easily measurable. It’s considerable enough that you might want to have a look at what you’re eating and whether you’re consuming enough of these options.
Who Found the Best Raw Fruits and Vegetables?
University of Otago researchers in New Zealand discovered that individuals consuming higher amounts of produce overall saw the most benefits. This was regardless of whether or not they ate the best raw fruits and vegetables. Overall, the lesson was that fresh produce is great for physical and mental health.
They found that the people who ate the most uncooked, fresh produce, they saw specific benefits. These benefits included improved overall health and psychological wellbeing when compared to people who ate primarily cooked veggies and fruits or who didn’t eat a lot of fresh produce.
How Were the Best Raw Fruits and Vegetables Identified?
The research involved the participation of 422 adults aged 18 to 25. The researchers took into consideration a range of variables when it came to the participants’ lifestyles, such as physical activity, BMI, socioeconomic status and their diet as a whole.
It’s important to note that the researchers were not able to identify a specific cause and effect leading to the research outcomes. However, they did speculate a link between the high number of micronutrients in the best raw fruits and vegetables and how easily they could be absorbed by the body when uncooked.
What Are the Best Raw Fruits and Vegetables for Weight Loss and Mental Health?
The research pointed to the top ten best raw fruits and vegetables for these benefits. They included: apples, bananas, carrots, citrus fruits, cucumber, dark leafy greens, fresh berries, grapefruit, kiwi and lettuce. Honorable mention for strong associations with positive mood were also given to five other types of fresh produce, including: cabbage, celery, mushrooms, red onion and tomato.
Further study is needed to confirm that the connection between these specific foods and their weight loss and mental health benefits. However due to the number of other studies that suggest eating lots of veggies and fruits is good for you, it certainly can’t hurt to work these ones into your favorite recipes. Still, before making major changes to your diet, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor. That way, you’ll know you’re balancing your nutrition properly.
