Choosing the right foods at the grocery store is only half the weight loss battle--you also need to prep and cook them. Making a mistake on the latter can really set you back on your weight loss goals. Vegetables are great, for example, as long as you don't introduce a ton of fat in the frying pan. So, what cooking methods do dietitians say are the best for weight loss? Click through the slideshow to find out.
Steaming:
"Steaming cooks food without the need for added fats (like oil, butter, etc.) which can lead to weight gain," Nathalie W. Rhone MS, RDN, CDN, exclusively told us. "This method of cooking also preserves the majority of the nutritional value of the food, while also sealing in the moisture and flavor."
Raw
Rhone, who has a private nutritional counseling practice Nutrition by Nathalie, explains that eating raw food has it's nutritional benefits as well. "When we cook food it is almost impossible not to destroy some of the vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Eating raw means that's we're truly eating food in it's natural state! Not only does it help to preserve the nutrients, but raw food can improve digestion, help to alkalize the body, and the high fiber content of most raw foods makes us feel fuller longer. Plus, most raw foods are low in fat, sodium, and any processed junk!"
Stir Fry
Rhone also stears her clients towards stir fry. "Don't be scared to use a healthy fat like olive oil in the pan," she advises. "Some food's nutrient values are actually enhanced when cooked in oil--like the lycopene in tomatoes. If you're worried about fat content, try using small amounts of oil and adding water or broth instead."
For more nutritional tips, follow Nathalie on Instagram at All Good Eats.
Microwaving
Rhone also suggests using your microwave in a pinch. "Although I'm not big on microwaving, this method of cooking actually preserves more nutrients than many other cooking methods because of the short cooking time. Microwaving is also great because it saves time if you're rushed, and eating warm food is often more satisfying, helping to keep you on track with your healthy diet!"
READ MORE: The One Thing You're Doing To Your Vegetables That Make Them Unhealthy
