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Japanese foods that help burn fat faster

By on August 5, 2013

There’s no place else better for  weight watchers to be than in Japan.  Most of the high quality, fat-burning foods are in abundance. Except for the Sumo wrestlers whose job it is to stay big and heavy, one of the things that foreigners here find striking is the absence of really overweight people. Scientific research proves that the Japanese diet has much to do with it.  It is no wonder that Japan produces the world’s finest athletes and Olympic medalists.  Protein is central to waking up the muscles.  The more lean muscles you have, the more energy you get.  If you are serious about getting rid of fat in no time, look to these Japanese power foods to rev up your metabolism and remember to do a consistent workout routine to achieve your weight goal.

1. Green Tea (Macha)
Green tea is rich in catechins, a type of polyphenols with anti-inflammatory properties. Not only does it help you burn calories, it also aids in the reduction of LDL cholesterol. An average consumption of 3 to 4 cups a day is a good way to start.

2. Salmon
Wild salmon is probably the most delicious fat-burning food that is easy to digest.  It is a  good source of lean protein and contains omega 3 fatty acids.  Salmon is best served grilled, seasoned with salt,pepper and lemon twist.

3.  Yogurt
There are tons of brands in the market but nothing compares to Meiji’s Bulgaria zero fat yogurt which contains probiotics, a type of bacteria known to reduce the amount of fat absorbed by the body and enhance gastrointestinal performance. Mix it with your favorite fruit in the morning for a power-packed breakfast.

4.  Edamame (Soy beans) / Tofu (soy bean curd) / Natto (Fermented soy beans)
This little bean is undeniably a very good protein source. According to the Haub et al’s 2002 study, there were no significant differences in strength, hypertrophy, muscle cross-sectional area, or muscle creatine levels when comparing meat protein to soy protein consumption during resistance training.  This means weight watchers get the same amount of protein from soy as they would from meat with far less calorie intake.

5.  Yakiimo (Broiled sweet potato)
Rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, manganese and potassium, sweet potatoes rank high in nutritional value compared to other vegetables.  Yakiimo or ready-to-eat char broiled sweet potato is peddled by vendors out in the streets during the cold months.

6.  Toban Jan  (Chilli paste)
Toban Jan is a  Japanese seasoning used to wake up the taste of food.  It is a spicy
paste made from red chili pepper, miso and sake.  It is packed with capsaicin, a fat burning compound that gives zest to tofu and raw veggies.

 

About Tim Furukawa