From ice apple to star fruit, here are 5 lesser known superfoods for weight loss

We’re always quick to switch from one thing to another in pursuit of weight loss. Sometimes we try portion control, or sometimes we rely on exercise. We understand the struggle that losing weight is. And so, we’re suggesting certain superfoods for weight loss!

You’re probably expecting us to recommend eating apples or grapefruit, both of which are known to aid in weight loss. But no! Today, we’ll reveal the names of some lesser-known superfoods that can help burn fat and provide all of the essential vitamins and minerals to maintain a healthy body.

Here are 5 lesser-known superfoods for weight loss:

1. Ice apple

Ice apple, also known as tadgola or nungu, is a juicy translucent fruit with the texture of litchi and the flavour of a slightly sweet tender coconut. It’s not just the fruit of the sugar palm tree that helps you beat the heat; it can also help if you’re trying to shed a few kilos off.

superfoods for weight loss
Packed with essential nutrients, Ice apple is the best superfood for weight loss. Image courtesy: Instagram | Shweta Shah

“The water in the fruit helps to maintain the feeling of fullness and helps you avoid consuming unnecessary food. They are also very low in calories which makes them ideal for weight loss. Their richness in dietary fibre aids in smoothing digestive processes, which is very essential if you are trying to lose weight,” says Dr Swathi Reddy (PT), Consultant Physiotherapist and certified diet counsellor and MIAP, Motherhood Hospitals, Bengaluru.

2. Wood apple

Not all people are aware of this amazing superfood. This fruit is a summer delicacy and is most enjoyed in the form of juice. Thanks to its high fibre and vitamin C content, that makes it perfect for weight loss. Apart from weight loss, wood apple or bael can also boost energy, support digestive health, cleanse your body and prevent respiratory ailments. In fact, if you are a diabetic, you can consume this superfood because it slows the progression of diabetes.

superfoods for weight loss
It’s the season for wood apples! Image courtesy: Shutterstock

3. Apricots

Apricots are well known for their beauty benefits, but this superfood has a ton of health benefits as well. This yellowish orange fruit is ideal for weight loss for three reasons: first, it contains a high fibre content, second, it is low in calories, and third, it aids digestion. In fact, apricots are high in antioxidants, which can boost the fat burning rate. Apart from that, apricots contain vitamin A, C, iron, potassium, and phytonutrients, all of which help with weight loss.

superfoods for weight loss
Nosh on this fruit for weight loss. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

4. Star fruits

Star fruit (Averrhoa carambola) has a light flavour and is a crunchy and juicy fruit. The skin is waxy, yellow or green, and edible, and the fruit contains tiny dark seeds. “Being a great source of fibre low in calories, and containing plenty of nutrients, star fruit is an ideal fruit for people on a diet. It can keep you full for longer, make your metabolism work fast. This means, you will burn more calories. It also makes for a great evening snack to munch on whenever your hunger pangs strike,” says Deepti Khatuja, Head Clinical Nutritionist, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram.

superfoods for weight loss
Make star fruit your go-to superfood for weight loss. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

5. Ramphal (sonave)

Ramphal, also known as sonave or kusum, is a microberry that is popular for its beauty benefits. It is related to the annona family, as is the custard apple (sitaphal). This superfood tastes super delicious and can help with diabetes. This fruit is beneficial to your overall health and can help you lose weight because it is high in vitamins, iron, calcium, and fibre. You can also incorporate it into your diet for improved immunity and hair care.

So ladies, consume these superfoods and see the magic.