Obesity medicine specialist answers your questions about the best foods for weight loss

As a Board-certified physician and obesity medicine specialist, Dr. Nicole Battaglioli of Kore MD Health and Wellness has access to the latest, evidence-based prescription medications and tools to support weight loss and address the underlying source(s) of chronic obesity. However, no medically supervised weight management program would be complete without guidance on nutrition and exercise. These two characteristics of our programs remain fundamental to a sustained healthy weight and a healthy lifestyle.

What are some good things I can eat for weight loss?

We appreciate the quantity and type of foods you are among the most prominent contributors to excess weight and inability to keep those pounds off once they are lost. And, while every aspect of your treatment is customized to fit your specific needs and preferences, all of us can benefit from a diet that is:

• Balanced.

• Abundant in veggies and fruit.

• Rich in whole grains.

• Robust in proteins and calcium from dairy.

• Focused on “good” fats (not all fat is “bad”).

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What do you mean by a balanced diet?

We know there is a lot of misinformation about the fundamentals of a healthy, nutritious diet. So, “balance” in this context refers to having an adequate mix of all the nutrients necessary for your body to flourish. The core elements include lean meats or other good protein sources, such as fish and tofu. Moderation is always key. All it takes to satisfy your nutritional needs is a palm-sized amount of lean protein incorporated into your meals. From there, you also include the other items mentioned here – such as the “green stuff,” dairy, and whole grains.

What are some good fruit and veggie options?

Anything from grilled vegetables to a fresh lettuce salad and fruit is a healthy accent and complements lean protein sources. Servings of cooked and fresh fruits and veggies amount to one-half cup and one cup, respectively. These are good choices because they are low in calories, high in fiber, and dense in powerful nutrients, vitamins, and minerals such as Vitamin K, Vitamin C, lutein, potassium, folate, and beta-carotene. Just be mindful of any unhealthy additives in prepared products.

What do you mean by “whole grains”?

Whole foods, like the grains highlighted here, are generally as close to their natural state as possible. They are the “anti-processed foods.” So, when in the bakery, cereal, pantry, and baking aisles, be sure to regularly reach for pasta, bread, flour, oatmeal, rice, and other products formulated with whole grains. These carbs provide energy and valuable fiber without all the “bad” or unnecessary stuff associated with prepackaged and overly processed foods.

Why is dairy important?

Options like milk and low-fat yogurts provide vital calcium and protein. Plant-based is good, too, as long as you mind your labels. These products benefit your bones and teeth, fill you up with good (not empty) calories, and contribute naturally to that satiated sensation. They can be an incredibly satisfying addition to any meal or snack. Experts generally advise incorporating two to four dairy choices into your daily diet.

Are some fats better than others?

Yes. Many vegetable oils, for instance, are packed with healthful fats. These include olive, sunflower, and avocado oils. Nuts and seeds are also good sources of beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Look at your labels. Avoid those products that contain a high percentage of trans and unsaturated fats as much as possible. These latter fats have no positive health effects and drive-up cholesterol. The former good fats help to support many essential functions, from controlling harmful LDL cholesterol and lowering triglycerides to minimizing inflammation.

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Let us cut through the food myths to help you navigate this journey to sustained better health. Call Kore MD Health and Wellness at (404) 623-2143 to schedule your consultation in Atlanta, GA, today.