When it comes to weight loss, pizza may not be the first food that comes to mind. It’s often thought of as a high-calorie, high-fat, and high-carbohydrate indulgence that should be avoided. However, not all pizzas are created equal. There are some pizza options that can actually support your weight loss goals.
So, which pizza is best for weight loss? The answer may surprise you. It’s all about the toppings and the crust.
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- Thin Crust Pizza When it comes to pizza crust, thin crust is the way to go. It’s lower in calories and carbohydrates compared to thick or stuffed crust. Thin crust pizza allows you to enjoy the delicious toppings without packing on the calories.
- Vegetable Toppings Instead of meat toppings, opt for vegetable toppings. Vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber, which helps keep you full for longer. Some great vegetable toppings include mushrooms, peppers, onions, spinach, and broccoli.
- Lean Protein Toppings If you do want to add some protein to your pizza, choose lean protein options. Avoid high-fat meats like pepperoni, sausage, and bacon. Instead, opt for grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Limit the Cheese Cheese is often the culprit when it comes to high-calorie pizzas. While cheese does provide some protein and calcium, it’s also high in saturated fat and calories. Limit the amount of cheese on your pizza, or choose a lower-fat cheese option like feta or part-skim mozzarella.
- Choose Whole Wheat Crust Whole wheat crust is a healthier option compared to white flour crust. It’s higher in fiber, which helps keep you full and supports healthy digestion. Whole wheat crust also contains more nutrients compared to white flour crust.
- Portion Control It’s important to practice portion control when it comes to pizza. Instead of eating an entire pizza, opt for a smaller portion and pair it with a side salad or vegetable soup.
- DIY Pizza Making your own pizza at home allows you to control the ingredients and portions. You can also experiment with healthier crust options like cauliflower crust or zucchini crust.
Here’s a recipe for a healthy pizza that you can make at home:
Ingredients:
pizza
- 1 whole wheat pizza crust
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (such as mushrooms, peppers, onions, and spinach)
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet or a pizza stone.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add the chopped vegetables and shredded chicken on top of the sauce, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the vegetables and chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the pizza cool for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the pizza.
- Slice the pizza and serve hot.
Conclusion: Pizza can be a part of a healthy and balanced diet when made with the right ingredients and portion sizes. Choose a thin crust, vegetable toppings, lean protein, and limit the cheese. Opt for the whole wheat crust and practice portion control. Making your own pizza at home allows you to experiment with healthier crust options and control the ingredients. So, enjoy your pizza guilt-free and in moderation.