A woman who lost over 50 pounds is saying that her weight loss journey has saved her life after she was able to find a cancerous tumor in her breast.

Andrea Richardson, 49, from Coppull, U.K., decided it was time to start losing weight in July 2019, according to SWNS.

"I have always been overweight since having my first daughter, Elizabeth, in 1997," Richardson told the news agency. "When I had my second daughter, Isabelle, who is now 18, my weight fluctuated up and down - life makes you fluctuate."

WOMANS WEDDING PHOTOS INSPIRE 84-POUND WEIGHT LOSS

Richardson told Fox News in an email: "My clothes were getting tighter and I hadn't even realized I had been buying bigger and bigger clothes until I had a tidy up one day."

Richardson explained that her major turning point was when she was sitting in her car one day, "feeling uncomfortable."

"It actually felt like my stomach was [sitting] on my lap," Richardson said.

Andrea Richardson lost 57 pounds in six months and credits her weight loss with saving her life. (Courtesy of SWNS)

After that, Richardson joined U.K.-based weight loss program Slimming World and lost about 57 pounds in just six months, according to SWNS.

In August 2020, Richardson heard about a friends cancer scare. She decided to check herself and found a lump in her left breast. After getting tested, doctors informed her that it was stage 1 breast cancer.

WOMAN LOSES 130 POUNDS BY HABIT STACKING: FOCUS ON PROGRESS, NOT PERFECTION

"The tumor was really close to my chest wall, so close in fact that it didnt even get picked up on the mammogram," Richardson told SWNS. "If I hadnt lost all that weight, I would never have found the tumor as early as I did, and my story could have been very different to the one I am sharing today."

After Richardson lost the weight, she found a lump in her left breast, which turned out to be stage 1 breast cancer. (Courtesy of SWNS)

"Caught early, breast cancer treatment has a much higher success rate, so Slimming World has well and truly saved my life," Richardson added.

According to a Swedish study published in Science Daily in 2017, overweight and obese women face a higher risk of not finding breast cancer tumors until the lumps become large. As a result of the study, researchers suggested that women with a high BMI should have more frequent breast cancer screenings.

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SWNS reported that after she was diagnosed with breast cancer, Richardson underwent two operations to remove the tumor and had intensive radiotherapy treatment. Five months after she found the lump, Richardson had completed her treatment.

"It sounds crazy, but I feel lucky," Richardson told Fox News. "I now have a new lease on life. Life really is fragile and you should treasure every moment, the good and the bad because that's what makes us who we are."

"Having breast cancer has changed me but for the better," she added. "My journey has taught me to put myself first and has made me realize that I am strong and resilient."

"If I hadnt lost all that weight, I would never have found the tumor as early as I did, and my story could have been very different to the one I am sharing today," Richardson said. (Courtesy of SWNS)

Richardson now runs her local Slimming World group and hopes to inspire other members to take their health seriously.

She told Fox that she wants to encourage people to "just go for it" when it comes to getting healthy.

"There's no shame in admitting that you need help in life," Richardson told Fox News. "Joining my local Slimming World group has changed my life forever. I have changed the way I cook my food, I'm in control of what I eat and I feel great."

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Woman's 57-pound weight loss allows her to spot breast cancer: 'I feel lucky' - Fox News

With every new year comes a renewed interest in weight loss diets. And thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting eating habits like ordering more take-out meals and eating more ultra-processed foods, many of us have noticed a few extra pounds on our frames by now.

The number of weight-loss diets to choose from appears to be endless, but that doesn't mean they're all worth trying. Some options are better for your overall health than others.

Among the sea of unique spins on methods to lose weight, here are some top picks that are sustainable, realistic, balanced, and 100% dietitian-approved. Read on, and for more on how to eat healthy, don't miss 15 Underrated Weight Loss Tips That Actually Work.

A diet that mimics what many people who live along the Mediterranean coast eatthink olive oil, nuts, vegetables, and whole grainsis one of the most popular diets out there. And although most data surrounding this diet are strongly linked to outcomes like a reduced risk of heart disease and improved cognition, following it may result in weight loss as well.

And even though following this diet results in similar weight loss as other popular diets (like the low-carb diet), following it can support your health in a variety of waysand in a delicious way too.

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Created by registered dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner, RDN, the Flexitarian Diet combines the concepts of following a vegetarian diet with including moderate amounts of animal products. The concepts and guidelines of this diet are detailed in her book The Flexitarian Diet.

Along with the protein source guidelines, this diet suggests that people limit added sugars and ultra-processed foods that are low in nutritional value.

Data shows that people who follow vegetarian diets appear to have more weight management benefits when compared to non-vegetarian diet-eaters. Following a flexitarian dietessentially a vegetarian diet with small amounts of animal proteins sprinkled incan offer weight management benefits while possibly helping people who enjoy an occasional lean piece of beef or a hard-boiled egg with the compliance factor.

WW (formerly Weight Watchers) personalizes your nutrition plan based on a series of questions. Participants also have access to support via the WW app, workshops, and plans to provide behavior-change techniques.

What is extra nice about this program is people can get 1:1 support virtually, eliminating potential barriers to not being able to engage with the program fully. And as a dietitian, I love how this program is that no food is off-limits. And since each participant gets a unique "points" budget and zero points food list, it is nice that this program does not take a "one-size-fits-all" approach.

The Mayo Clinic Diet's goal is to build healthy eating habits. To follow this diet, you start with a two-week "Lose It" phase, where you add five habits, break five habits, and take on five optional bonus habits if you choose.

After the two-week jumpstart, the "Live It" phase begins. During this phase, you would focus on sustainable habits. When following this diet, people can also use the Mayo Clinic Diet app, which contains meal plan options, a food tracker, and a database of recipes.

Dietary guidance is provided, with the help of their unique food pyramid that highlights which foods should be eaten more frequently than others. A psychological quiz, at-home workouts, a habit optimizer, and other beneficial features are included as well.

The fact that this diet focuses on developing good and sustainable habits that are hopefully going to follow people over the long term makes this plan a dietitian's dream come true. Gaining new habits instead of simply following a meal plan can help people experience lasting results.

The newest Jenny Craig plan goes beyond a simple eating plan and includes a holistic approach to weight loss. Along with dietary support, this program includes an activity curriculum, quality of life assessment, and hydration guidance. Plus, the program takes advantage of new technology by utilizing an app that is linked to a wireless scale for easy monitoring. After four weeks of following this program, participants may experience up to an 18-pound weight loss according to the company's website.

While diet is an important part of a weight loss plan, it isn't the only part of a weight loss plan. I love how this program emphasizes physical activity, hydration, and quality of life as important factors of a weight loss journey along with food choices.

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For all types, if you're struggling to lose weight, I often recommend omitting both gluten and dairy, as these foods can be inflammatory.

Anti-inflammatory foods are also important for promoting hormone balance and digestive function, especially for Warriors, Anchors, and Trailblazers. Begin by omitting sensitivities and incorporating more anti-inflammatory foods and spices, such as turmeric, ginger, blueberries, pineapple, and celery.

Protein is key for Anchors to support adrenal function, while Protector types may want to limit their intake of red meat in favor of more easily digested proteins.

You'll want to omit sugar, refined carbohydrates, and alcohol if you're a type who struggles withCandidaovergrowth, most commonly Anchors and Protectors. This type of yeast overgrowth can cause bloating, fatigue, joint pain, and weight gainbut it's often a latent infection overlooked at most doctors' visits.

Before eliminating foods from your diet, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to find out if it's the right plan for you.

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An Integrative MD Says There Are 5 Weight Loss Types Which One Are You? - mindbodygreen.com

We know there is no single magical food that drives more weight loss. However, there are specific foods and nutrients that certainly can support weight loss more than others.

When working toward weight loss, eating a balanced breakfast starts your day off on the right foot. A balanced breakfast can help you feel more full, satisfied, and can even reduce cravings throughout the day.

Oatmeal has long been correlated with improved health such as lower cholesterol and better blood sugar. However, oatmeal itself is a complex carbohydrate. While the fiber and whole grains in oatmeal are good for our heart health, we can level-up this breakfast option for your weight loss goals.

The key is to start your day with a breakfast that is high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. While oatmeal alone is a great source of a high-fiber carbohydrate, it lacks protein and healthy fat to round out the meal.

Enter: chia seeds! Chia seeds offer a small protein boost, healthy fat, and a powerful dose of fiber for more fullness and satisfaction on your weight loss journey.

One serving of chia seeds provides five grams of protein. Combined with the six grams of protein in oatmeal, this nearly doubles the total amount of protein in your breakfast. More protein at breakfast ensures better blood sugar, stable energy levels, and may improve hunger levels during the day.

Get creative! Other ways to add protein to oatmeal include using protein powder, Greek yogurt, or milk.

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Chia seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are known to have an improved effect on metabolic health. Many Americans are lacking in omega-3s and typically consume an overabundance of omega-6s. Thus their 6:3 ratio is skewed to contribute to less optimal health.

Chia seeds may improve your 6:3 ratio. In addition to its health benefits, the fat in chia seeds can also improve satisfaction and feeling full for longer.

Here's What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Chia Seeds.

We know that diets high in fiber are strongly associated with long-term weight loss. Chia seeds offer 10 grams of fiber per two-tablespoon serving.

These mighty seeds also expand in liquid, further increasing their volume and improving your sensations of fullness.

You can make overnight oats in the fridge, and the chia seeds will absorb the moisture overnight. The consistency is perfect, and you have a grab-and-go breakfast in the morning.

Searching for more? We've got you covered with these 26 Best Omega-3 Superfoods!

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The #1 Best Oatmeal Topping for Weight Loss, Says Dietitian Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

Marie Osmond is still fit and fabulous 15 years after shedding 50 pounds with the help of Nutrisystem. The legendary entertainer tells Closer exclusively that the most important lesson is to never think about weight loss as dieting and that food is not the enemy.

She explains, I was born in the worst era possible for women and weight. It was the 70s where everybody had to be Twiggy, you know, a zipper, a lollipop head. It was all name a diet. Ive done that diet, I swear to you. As a result, My tip would be dont think of it as weight loss, because the minute you think dieting, you think, Oh, I cant have this, and thats not what this is about.

Nutrisystem taught me that food was my friend, it was not my enemy. That you can eat what you love, but make healthy choices and understand portion control and understand frequency of eating makes it so you can eat food and not starve to death, she explains. Nutrisystem has now introduced a new menu of premium meals that are 50 percent bigger and have up to 30 grams of protein.

Marie reveals, I actually fast once a month, Ive done it for my entire life. But to do it all the time, it shuts your metabolism down. And so, you get to the point that you really cant eat a lot of food and that doesnt work for me. I need to eat. Its my energy, and also, I think its your mental health.

When it comes to eating,You know, youve got to be able to go out to dinner and sit down with your friends, the singer shares. But for when someone wants the same delicious food at home while watching their weight, Nutrisystem now offers restaurant favorites, which are perfectly portioned to offer half the calories of traditional dining out options.

Look at me. I have been off of it [Nutrisystem] now for 15 years. I lost my weight 15 years ago, and I dont let myself get more than five pounds overweight, usually around holidays or something like that, the Paper Roses singer reveals. You know, Ill eat a little extra. One week its off, and you know, youre back to your game, and you feel great about yourself.

Most of all, Marie just wants people to feel their healthiest. More than anything, dont think of it as a weight loss journey or a diet or anything. Just think of it as being healthy. Because thats really what it is for me, about her smart eating habits.

Reporting By Natalie Posner.

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Marie Osmond Shares Her No. 1 Weight Loss Tip After Losing 50 Lbs and Keeping It Off for 15 Years - Closer Weekly

This is the time of year when weight-loss ads are ubiquitous.

Oh, look theres former Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino shilling for a popular meal plan.

And hey,what to do you know theresOprah Winfreysincerelytelling you about how anotherwell-knowneating planhas transformedher life.

Andlets not forgetthe nonstop offers ofgreatdeals onnewgym memberships.

Indeed,according to CNBC,the weight-loss industry as a wholehas grown into a $70-billion-plusannualbusiness behemoth.

But with such growth has also come myriad misinformation about what is effective and whatisnt.

In his new book Supersized Lies: How Myths about Weight Loss are Keeping Us FatAnd the Truth about What Really Works(EverwellBooks/$16.99/available on Amazon) veteran healthauthorRobert J. Davis(aka The Healthy Skeptic)explores the science behind long-held popular health claims.

With chapter titles like The CalorieFallacy, Exercise Illusions, Superfood Foolery and Timing Isnt Everything,Davisbreaks down the myriad components that affect how our bodies process and react to both food andexercise.

In addition, each chapter containsseveralmythor truth? suppositionsabout food, dieting, exercise,weight lossand more.

Here are someof the myth or truth? breakdownsI found especially interesting:

Avoiding gluten has become popular in the diet and nutrition industry. Gluten is a proteinfound in rye, barley and wheat and can be harmful to those with celiac disease. But for those free of celiac disease, theres no science behind avoiding the substance.

While some individuals without celiac disease report symptoms due to gluten (a condition known as gluten sensitivity),its unproven that weight gain is one of them, writes Davis. Nor is there proof that gluten-free diets lead to weight loss.

The glycemic index(GI) a number ranging from 0 to 100 ranks carbohydrates based on how much they raise ones blood sugar. Potatoes and rice are considered high-glycemic foodswhile nuts and beans are considered low-glycemicones. Those who advocate avoiding high-glycemic foods do so because they believe such foods promote weight gain.

However,Daviswrites studies overall have failed to show that low-GIdiets are superior for weight loss and that the concept of GI itself is flawed because it assumes that foods are consumed in isolation on an empty stomach.

Weve been told since childhood to eat our fruits and vegetables but what effect does the fructose and glucosein fruit have on our waistlines?

Turns out most of the produce aisle is pretty safe for your weight-loss plan so feel free to grab that apple.

Overall, research show that fruit does not contribute to weight gain and is even linked to weight loss, writes Davis. And low-sugar fruits arent necessarily better for your waistline than high-sugar ones.In three large studies, apples and pears, whose sugar content is on the high side, were more strongly associated with weight loss than lower-sugar fruits like grapefruit.

That said, Davis also recommended avoiding fruit juice becauseits both full of sugar and bereft ofbeneficial fiber,andbecausedrinking fruit juice has beenlinked with weight gain.

Foods such as cucumbers, lettuce and celery have gained the reputation among dieters as requiring moreenergy expenditure to digest than they contain thus being foods that actually burn calories to consume.

Sowhats the old saying about when something sounds too good to be true?

Thats the case here even in foods with miniscule calorie counts like celery and cucumbers.

However, there is one substance that, technically, will cause your body to burn moreenergythan ittakes in calorically.

Ice cold water ... has no calories, and we burn a few calories to warm it up to body temperature, writes Davis. But the number is likely toosmall to have an impact on our weight.

Theidea that creating a 3,500-calorie deficit will equal a 1-pound weightlossdates back to research of overweightwomen in the 1950sbut Davis says this simplistic formula is misleading…[becauseit] fails to take individual differencesinto account or to consider how the body adapts to weight loss.

He cites studies of identical twins that suggest howpeople gain and loseweight hassuchavastarrayofgenetic componentsthatits virtually impossible to uniformly predict how caloric increases and decreases will affect specific peopleover time.

The unfortunate truth is that some medications including antidepressants, beta blockers, mood stabilizersand steroidal hormones, among others are associated with weight gain.

As Davis explains, Certain medicines…can slow metabolism, cause fluid retention, increase fat storage, or stimulate appetite, all of which may lead to weight gain.

But these effects dont necessarily occur in all people so if youre on any of these or other weight-gain-associated drugs such as antihistamines,birth control pillsand/orantibiotics consult with your own physician about their potential side effects.

While many of us correlate sweating with working out hardand burning calories,the act of sweatingalone hasmore to dowith other factors including gender, age, genetics, air temperature, humidity, etc. than it does with exercise intensity.Sure, you might drop a few pounds of water weight if you sweat a lot, but once you rehydrate, the lost weight will return. In addition, a low- or non-sweat workout does not necessarily meanyoure not working out hard enough.

According to Davis, a good rule of thumbforgauging workout intensity is theso-called talk test. If you can talk and sing during your activity without becoming breathless, the intensity level is low. If you can talk but not sing, the intensity is moderate. And if you can barely get out any words, youre doing vigorous exercise and burning more calories.

This is one Ive long done not because of the supposed weight-loss potential but rather because I have no appetite first thing in the morning.

That said, many competitive bodybuilders swear by fasted cardio when theyre trying to cut weightand fat prior to a contest. The theory theyre subscribing to is that if the body is depleted of carbs prior to exercise, it will turn to stored fat for energy.

This strategy works sort of.

As Davis explainsof the numerous studies done on this topic, theres some evidence that fasted cardio may boostfat burning, but only fleetingly. Over the course of days or weeks, which is what counts, fasted cardio doesnt appear to promote loss of either fat or weight in general.

Thus,the decisionwhether or nottoexercise on an empty stomach or after a light breakfast for energy should bemade based on your personal preference and what enables you to perform optimally not on your weight-loss and fat-burning goals.

More:
Boomer Health: New book gets to the bottom of long-held weight-loss myths - Palm Beach Post

For many people, ushering in a new year means ushering in a new diet. One study found that 20% of participants resolved to shed pounds beginning January 1, making weight loss the second most common category of resolutions after physical health. But study after study has found that diets dont work long-termthe vast majority of people eventually gain back the weight they lose, if not even moreand that lower body weight isnt a reliable indicator of better health anyway.

Trying to change your diet in the name of losing weight is, generally speaking, misguided at best, and can do your mind and body real harm. But that doesnt mean you cant benefit from eating differently.

If, come New Years, youre not feeling physically well or your relationship with food feels off, its not a bad idea to change the way you eat, says Blair Burnette, a postdoctoral researcher in psychology at the University of Minnesota. Maybe youre uncomfortably bloated or feeling low on energy. Maybe you notice yourself getting take-out more often than youd like, or eating whenever youre bored and sad. Its possible to improve your physical and mental health by being more mindful about what you eat. Doing so may even lead to changes in your body composition. The key is to shed the misconception that losing weight should be your driving goal.

Here are five diet resolutions to consider if youre hoping to start the new year with a healthier relationship with foodno scales required.

People are more likely to maintain resolutions that involve an addition to their routine, rather than goals that require avoiding something tempting, according to a 2020 study published in PLOS One. Instead of resolving to limit treats, set a goal to eat a greater variety of nutrient-dense foods. Try adding a vegetable to every meal, signing up to receive a Community Supported Agriculture box, or eating a piece of fruit for your afternoon snack each day.

Tracking each day that you complete your habit using an app or a simple notebook can make the goal feel measurable. Start out small, says Vivienne Hazzard, who is also a postdoctoral researcher in psychology at the University of Minnesota. rather than saying, Im going to do this thing every single day, say, maybe Im going to do it two or three times a week.

The idea of adding instead of subtracting can guide you to make any meal more nutrient-dense without restricting the things you love. Instead of banishing chips and cookies from the house, aim to pair them with other foods that help you feel satiateda side of guacamole or a scoop of nut butter, for instance. Mix leafy greens into your mac and cheese or meatloaf. Throw a handful of frozen spinach into your morning eggs.

Water is a simple addition that can make a big difference for your health. Mild dehydration (water loss equal to less than three percent of your bodys weight) is associated with fatigue, lowered motivation, and gastrointestinal problems like constipation, according to a 2010 review article published in the journal Nutrition Reviews. Chronic mild dehydration might even contribute to a higher risk of developing urinary tract infections, high blood pressure, heart disease, and strokes. Aim for between 2.5 and 3.5 liters (84.5 and 101.4 ounces) of water per day, more if you work out. To remind yourself to guzzle a glass, tie it to another part of your routineleave a water bottle by your bedside and take a few sips as soon as you wake up, make a cup of herbal tea for when you sit down at your desk, drink a glass whenever you brush your teeth. There are dozens of apps to help you track how much water you drink and send you helpful reminders. If drinking plain water feels like a chore, try adding in something more interesting like cucumbers, lemon juice, or flavored electrolytes.

[Related: Dont punish yourself for eating unhealthy foods]

Fiber is the material in plant-based foods that our bodys cant digest. For a long time, scientists thought of it as junk, says Beth Olson, a professor of nutrition at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Today, we know that its essential. Fiber feeds the bacteria in our guts, which could have an indirect effect on everything from our mood to our immune systems, Olson says. In plants, fiber acts like a capsule for the nutrients the body does use, like sugar and fat, making it harder for our body to absorb them. So when we eat fiber-rich brown rice or beans, our body doesnt actually absorb all the carbohydrates they contain. We also absorb those nutrients more slowly and feel full for longer. Plus, fiber-rich foods are often rich in other nutrients. Fiber keeps good company, Olson says. The Mayo Clinic recommends that women aim for between 21 and 25 grams of fiber a day, while men should aim for between 30 and 38 grams. (For reference, an apple contains about five grams of fiber; a cup of black beans contains 15.)

Im biased here, because I made this resolution in 2018 and have hardly missed a week since. Its easy, fun and, as an added bonus, may even have health benefits. People who cook at home tend to have better overall health, closer personal relationships, and a stronger sense of cultural identity, according to a 2017 review published in the journal Appetite.

To maximize the positive effects, take the time to sit down and enjoy the meal youve cooked. This might mean savoring the food with friends or family, but it can also be as simple as turning off Netflix, lighting a candle, and relishing in the nourishment youve prepared for yourself. Its a way to take care of your mental health, Burnette says, It can connect you to meaning and joy in life. Plus, youll save the money youd otherwise spend on take-out.

Rather than counting calories, start keeping track of how your food makes you feel. Jot down what you eat at each mealnot macronutrients and exact portions, as you would on a strict diet, but simple summaries of what went on your platehow hungry you were beforehand, and how you felt afterward.

Paying attention to hunger is an important element of intuitive eating, a diet paradigm that encourages eating based on internal, not external cues. Adults who practice intuitive eating are less likely to stress eat and are happier with their bodies overall.

Pay attention to when youre hungry when youre full. And eat accordingly, Hazard says, And that might sound simple, but I think because of diet culture, so many people have just gotten so off base with those cues. Its important, however, that you dont pay attention to calories or measure portion sizesand dont stress if you notice that youre eating when youre not hungry, or eating past the point of satiety, Burnette says. Its not the hunger and fullness diet.

Ultimately, any changes you make to your diet should be tweaks that are pretty easy for you to maintain,and ones that make you feel good, Olson says. Otherwise, they wont be sustainable. Dont force yourself to start eating a vegetable you dont like; dont expect yourself to cook elaborate meals on weeknights if you regularly come home exhausted; dont furiously chug water every time you crave a soda. If the way youre eating leaves you irritable, tired, or stressed, wellits not very good for your health, is it? Focusing only on the nutritional value of food, rather than the pleasurable aspects, isnt helpful for our health in the long run, Olson emphasizes. Food is an important part of our culture, Olson says, Its celebratory, its nourishment.

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5 nutrition goals that are better than weight loss - Popular Science

Whether youre looking to reduce inflammation or get rid of excess body fat this year, there's no denying that diet plays a major role in our overall healthphysical, psychological, etc. If youre like me and are too busy to cook every night, you may or may not have fallen into the habit of ordering Postmates and takeout way more than should be allowed since the COVID-19 pandemic hit a couple of years ago. Heck, awaiting my dinner delivery was the one and only thing I had to look forward to. But, not only has eating out almost every night taken a toll on my wallet but its also taken a toll on my waistline, which led me to do some research to find the best meal delivery services for weight loss and healthy eating.

Frankly, I could care less about not fitting into my 2019 jeans, but I just feel off (sluggish, heavy, and less focussed) as of late, and I am almost positive my current disposition is, at least in part, due to my less-than-stellar diet. This is precisely why I decided to look into some healthier (yet still convenient) meal delivery options this year.

Yes, I would love to subscribe to those meal kit plans like Hello Fresh that supply you with new recipes and all of the ingredients necessary to make your meals, but I know having to dedicate even a half-hour every weeknight to cooking isnt sustainable for my life (and work) schedule.

Sure, ordering takeout or prepared meals from healthy restaurants is always a solid option, but if youre like me and have realized that the majority of the money youve shelled out during the pandemic has literally gone directly to the pricey contactless restaurant and lazy-day fast food orders, you may also be looking to pull back a bit on relying on these delivery apps to feed you. Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable meal delivery services that are both healthy, affordable, and yes, actually tasty.

Of course, it goes without saying that the meal delivery services listed below may not be quite as budget-friendly as shopping for your own groceries and preparing the food in your own kitchen, but theyre ridiculously convenient nonetheless.

After all, time is money, am I right? Whether youre giving the plant-based lifestyle a shot or hopping on the low-carb ketogenic bandwagon, theres truly something for every diet and budget. Scroll through below to check out some of the best meal delivery services for weight loss and healthy eating below.

Sakara Life Signature Nutrition Program

Out of all the meal delivery services I've tried Sakara Lifes plant-powered meal program is without a doubt my favorite. Sakara offers four different options to cater to your individual needs, with a focus on improving digestion, energy and even enhancing your complexion through nutrition.

Each ready-to-eat meal not only tastes delicious (yes, even if youre not vegan) but also improves your energy and actually (albeit surprisingly) fills you up. I'm not going to lieit's pretty expensivewe're talking up to $60 a day, but for me, it was worth it. Some of my favorite dishes include The Beauty Blend Salad, the Root Veggie Enchiladas, and the Pasta a La Vodka with kale "parmesan."

Territory Foods

Great for Gluten-Free Diets

Another one of my personal favorite prepared food delivery services is Territory Foods. They offer a huge selection of healthy meal options suitable for a wide variety of diets and dietary preferences, including Keto, Paleo, plant-based, and more. All meals are crafted to inflammation-reducing ingredients and zero dairy, refined sugar, or gluten. All you have to do is unbox your weekly delivery of breakfasts, lunch, and dinner (or whichever meals you choose to order), refrigerate, and toss in the microwave before eating.

Plus, the meal delivery service often teams up with local restaurants for meals, so theres always a new rotation of options every week (along with permanent menu items, of course). My favorite is the Keto Grilled Salmon with Cauliflower and Broccoli. It's so, so, good. Prices range from about $10.95-$13.95 per meal.

For those who aren't into cooking, but are okay with very minimal meal prep, Oats Overnight is perfect for you. Oats Overnight is ideal for people who are super busy and prone to eating on the go, as each oat-based meal is designed to be portable (read: basically, drinkable).

My favorite options are the caffeine-infused oats, but you can also choose from a slew of fun flavors like Fruity Cereal, Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Crunch, and caffeinated Chai Latte.

Another plant-based meal plan on the list, Purple Carrot offers an ever-changing menu chock full of fiber and antioxidant-rich plates that state like they're from a five-star restaurant. Plus, if you're looking for a sustainable and earth-friendly, option, look no further.

On average, each Purple Carrot meal results in 72 percent less carbon being released into the atmosphere compared to the average American meal. Some of my personal favorite Purple Carrot dishes include Walnut-Crusted Artichokes and Spicy Almond Butter Noodles. On average, Purple Carrot's meal delivery service will set you back about $71 per week.

As someone who isn't plant-based, I have to admit that I was super impressed by each one of Thistle's vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals I tried. Of course, I should mention that Thistle also offers a selection of fish and meat-based meal options for pescatarians and carnivores as well.

Unlike other meal delivery services, Thistle allows you to customize your meals and subscription frequency, and you can pause the program at any timebut, really, you probably will not want to. Some of my favorite dishes from the program include Creamy Tomato Pasta, Cauliflower Polenta Bowl, and the Dirty Chai Oatmeal Bowl. They also offer a huge assortment of fresh-pressed juices and sides as well. Prices range from about $60 a month or $15 (for meat) per meal.

For those who just are simply just not ready to graduate from the microwave to the stove right now, but also don't want to consume copious amounts of sodium and preservatives that frozen meals are laden with, it's time to give Freshly's super convenient (and eco-friendly) meal delivery service a shot.

Our contributor, Daniel Modlin reviewed Freshly for Scouted and had nothing but glowing reviews about it. "As much as I love to cook, sometimes I need a break. Takeout is often my (and most peoples) respite, but that has its own drawbacks as well. And so, instead of eating dinner at 7:00, I end up deciding what I want at 8:00, and it ends up delivered at 9:00. While I never saw myself as someone who would use a meal kit delivery service, I recently tried this one, and discovered even though I never thought Id ever use it, that doesnt mean I shouldnt be using it," he said. Prices start at about $12 a meal.

Eliminating shopping, cooking, and cleaning, Trifecta is a nutrition-focused meal delivery service that ships fully cooked, fresh meals prepared by professional chefs weekly to all 50 states, giving more people time in their day to focus on everything else they've got going on. You can also choose from a la carte menu items, which functions like a healthier online deli.

Best of all, Trifecta is also now the most sustainable of meal delivery services, so you can feel confident that your deliveries and packaging aren't harming the planet.

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Excerpt from:
Meal Delivery Services for Weight Loss and Healthy Eating - The Daily Beast