If You're Looking to Slim Down, These 25 Foods Are Here To Help

A simple, homemade salsa is full of fresh ingredients as well as flavor. You can add the condiment to salads or as a topping on lean meats like fish or chicken for a satisfying meal without high-calorie condiments.

They may be full of carbs, but potatoes aren't the enemy. A 2008 study found that potatoes are the food that helped people feel the most satisfied. The skin of a potato is full of fiber and the starch doesn't have a ton of calories, meaning potatoes can be part of your diet — just make sure you eat the skin and hold the melted butter and sour cream.

A 2011 study found that people who ate an ounce of nuts a day had higher levels of the feel-good hormone serotonin, which can act as an appetite suppressant. Higher serotonin levels may also help diminish stress levels — a big help when it comes to the fight against belly fat.

Fiber, protein, omega-3s — chia seeds have them all. Not only that, but they plump when added to liquid, which can make you feel more satisfied with smaller portions. Sprinkle chia seeds into your smoothies or on top of your oatmeal, or make an overnight chia pudding to enjoy for breakfast.

Fish like salmon are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for a myriad of reasons, including lower blood pressure and a healthier heart. But omega-3s may also help reduce inflammation in your body, which can help you recover faster after a long workout to build more metabolism-boosting muscles in the long run. That and salmon's high protein content make it an excellent choice for a weight-loss-worthy dinner.

Swap your breakfast cereal for a bowl of oatmeal, and you just may see the pounds disappear. A recent study found that those who ate oatmeal instead of cereal consumed the same amount of calories but felt fuller longer and more satisfied, thanks to oatmeal's high fiber content.

Broth-based soups are a healthy eater's best friend; they fill you up, are relatively convenient, and are low in calories. Look for a low-sodium, BPA-free can, or make a big pot of these healthy soups to eat throughout the week.

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Studies have shown that the antioxidant anthocyanin, found in berries, can alter gene activity in fat cells, making it harder to gain weight. Blueberries are especially high in this antioxidant (it's what makes them so blue!), so sprinkle them on everything this Summer.

Chock-full of antioxidants and low in calories, popcorn makes a great substitute when you're craving salty, greasy chips. Skip the melted butter, and go for one of these healthy popcorn toppings for a snack that's fewer than 150 calories.

Apples are one of the fruits that are highest in pectin, a soluble fiber that helps you feel full and satisfied. Eat an apple as a snack, and you may just feel like eating a little less when it comes time for your meal.

Meat is an excellent source of protein for building muscle and keeping you full, but going for fatty cuts and processed meats isn't so good for your waistline or your health. Instead, opt for the leanest cuts of meat in order to keep your meals at a normal calorie count.

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Sipping green tea throughout the day is a great way to boost your metabolism and suppress your appetite while also hydrating you to keep your body in tip-top shape.

It's the low-carb dieter's secret gourd: scoop out the stringy flesh from a baked spaghetti squash, and enjoy a pasta dinner without the stuffed, bloated feeling. At only 42 calories per one-cup serving, you can feel like you're indulging, the healthy way. These spaghetti squash recipes are great lightened-up comfort meals for any busy weekday.

They keep well in your pantry and are a great protein source, so stock up on beans for a hearty, low-calorie meal that won't take too long to make. These healthy bean recipes are a great place to start.

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Besides being high in protein and fiber, lentils are also a great source of resistant starch, a type of carb that just might make you burn more fat and lose weight faster. Try adding these lentil recipes to your rotation.