I remember the first time I went on a diet. I’d recently stopped nursing my daughter and was ready to slim down. So, being the people person that I am, I joined a diet group at my job. I was so excited about it, especially since it basically called for me to eat meat and forego much else (yes, I admit it: I’m a carnivore).

It worked, at first. I lost 10 lbs in 2 months but then my body started to rebel. Flooding my system with meat was taking its toll. I found myself nauseous, sluggish and ill-tempered. In the end, I traded in my meat diet for a well-rounded eating lifestyle complete with moderate exercise.

And so can you!!

It’s not as hard as you think, especially not with these 4 fat-burning nutrients.

1. Calcium ~ it’s not only for strong teeth and bones. Researchers say calcium helps the body burn fat. Spinach, kale, broccoli and dairy products are loaded with the stuff.
2. Vitamin D ~ researchers say this vitamin quells cellular inflammation that contributes to diabetes and helps the body process calcium. Foods like salmon, swiss cheese and foritfied whole grains are sure to please any palette.
3. Omega 3 ~ we’ve heard all the research about wonderful omega 3′s but did you know it helps slow the rate of digestion, making the body feel fuller, longer? So go ahead, sink your teeth into shrimp, walnuts, tofu or tuna–you deserve it. 
4. Fiber ~ it’s not just for keeping you regular. Diets rich in fiber help jumpstart hormones that control appetite and it helps control blood sugar. Hope you like citrus fruits, apples, artichokes, carrots or whole grain breads.

So, eat and be merry!!