Do you follow a plant-based diet and want to add some vegan fat burning foods into your meals?
While veganism is an ethical posture and a lifestyle choice more than a weight loss solution, it is also one of the healthiest diets for all stages of life and has lots of foods available to help you achieve your fat loss goals.
In this article, I will share with you more than 30 fat burning vegan foods you can add to your diet today to help you move closer to your desired physique while helping you. prevents cholesterol, high blood pressure, and other chronic diseases.
Top Vegan Fat Burning Foods
Vegan Fat Burning Food #1: Kelp
Kelp is a type of seaweed considered a superfood from all the amazing benefits it offers including cancer-fighting and hormone-balancing properties.
Kelp provides a good amount of the mineral Iodine which promotes a healthy and efficient thyroid function. It combines with tyrosine – an amino acid – to create T3 and T4, thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism so if your weight gain is produced by a thyroid disorder, kelp can help you lose weight.
But its qualities don’t stop there. It is also nutrient-dense, low in fat and calories, and high in fiber alginate which helps to stop the absorption of fat in the gut.
However, it is always advised to consult with your doctor before loading on kelp especially if you suspect you might have a thyroid disorder.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #2: Broccoli
It is not a surprise that vegetables, especially dark leafy greens are great for your overall health but they also have properties that can promote weight and fat loss since they contain lots of fiber that helps you feel full and satisfied.
According to One study by the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, dark green vegetables, like broccoli, can help reduce belly fat.
Broccoli, in particular, is such a standout among all the deep-colored veggies because it’s one of the few that contain calcium, which has been shown to increase fat loss, especially in the abdominal area.
It also contains high amounts of vitamin K and vitamin C and which can boost your metabolism.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #3: Celery
For a long time, there was a theory about ‘negative-calorie foods’ that required more calories to be digested versus the number of calories they provided.
Celery was one of the commonly cited foods and that theory has been scientifically proven!
“After being fed both celery raw and in a smoothie – each containing 53 calories — Tebbutt burned 72 calories while eating the raw celery and 112 while drinking the smoothie. In both cases, he burned more calories digesting the celery than the celery contained.”
While you might not get a significant calorie burn by eating celery, it is still very low-calorie snack that will fill you up and avoid you to eat some less healthy option
Additionally, celery provides a good supply of ascorbic acid and fiber and fiber which promote a healthy gut and avoid bloating.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #4: Nuts
Nuts are high in healthy monounsaturated fats and protein which helps to increase your resting metabolism, make you feel satisfied for longer, and lower the threat of cardiovascular disease.
They are also a good source of an amino acid called L-arginine that helps you burn fat. and shed extra pounds while their fiber and protein help keep your digestive health in check and your blood sugars steady.
While they offer incredible benefits for health and fat loss, nuts are also very dense in calories so keep that in mind when choosing your servings.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #5: Spinach
Spinach is an excellent weight loss foods since it is high fiber and nutrients and low in calories. This makes you feel full and keep while keeping your calories under control.
One cup of spinach contains just 7 calories and since it contains a high percentage of insoluble fibre those calories will not get absorbed in the body.
additionally, the high fiber content in spinach will help you stay full for longer reducing the number of calories you consume without efofrt.
High fiber foods like Spinach are broken down slowly by your boyd which signals to your brain that it has had enough to eat and helps avoid cravings.
Moreover, early research shows that nitrate in Spinach has the potential to convert “bad” white fat cells into beige cells that help reduce obesity.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #6: Cucumber
Cucumber is a great alternative for fat loss since it has zero fat and is very low in calories, yet it is versatile and satisfying and can be eaten as a snack or part of your salads.
Once cucumber has only 50 calories and it contains as much as 96 percent of water which helps you avoid bloating, digest better, cleanse your bowels and boost your metabolism.
They also contain sterols that help to reduce cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #7: Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are high in soluble fiber which absorbs large amounts of water and can swell up to 10 times their size. When you consume chia seeds after letting them soak for a while, they will expand in your stomach giving you a feeling of satiety and slowing the absorption of food
They are also a great source of plant-based protein that keeps you full for longer, reduces appetite, and cravings, and supports muscle growth and development —which is essential for long-term fat loss.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #8: Hemp Seeds
Besides all the amazing health benefits of hemp seeds, they can also help with weight and fat loss.
Hemp seeds offer are of the few plant proteins that are considered “complete” meaning that they offer all nine essential amino acids. Complete proteins are key to your overall health as well as maintaining your muscle mass when dieting, and making sure the result is a toned and lean physique.
Since hemp seeds are high in protein and fats and low in carbs they are also an ideal alternative for those in a vegan keto diet.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #9: Asparagus
Asparagus has a reputation for creating a funky smelling pee but it might be worth tolerating due to its weight and fat loss benefits.
This vegetable contains the chemical asparagine, an amino acid has been shown to increase STH secretion and fat loss when taken on an empty stomach before bed.
Asparagus is also high in fiber and prebiotics, which encourages satiety, fights bloating, regulates blood sugar, suppresses appetite, and reduces sugar cravings.
And that is not all, it is also a natural diuretic that helps get rid of excess water storage in your body.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #10: Cayenne or Hot Peppers
Cayenne peppers contain a substance called capsaicin that is actually one of the main ingredients in a lot of fat burning supplements.
Capsaicin works by increasing oxygen consumption and body temperature, which leads to an increase in your heart rate and in calories burned.
Include cayenne pepper in your diet can help create a caloric deficit without the need to change anything else which will lead to weight and fat loss.
Besides burning fat as heat, cayenne pepper can stimulate weight loss by suppressing your appetite. A 2014 study showed that people who consumed red pepper with every meal felt increased feelings of fullness and had fewer cravings. By suppressing your appetite. cayenne pepper can also decrease in caloric intake and result in weight loss.
If you don’t feel like eating cayenne peppers every day, you can check out some of the fat burners that use Capsaicin as their main ingredient.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #11: Avocado
Avocadoes are high in fat so people used to think they needed to stay away from this delicious plant if they wanted to lose fat.
But, on the contrary, avocadoes can contribute to your fat loss goals due to its high fiber and monounsaturated fats content that help reduce appetite, decrease the risk of high blood pressure, and serve to lower your cholesterol levels.
The healthy fats they contain are high in omega 3s and 6s and provide long-burning energy. that helps you stay fuller for longer and prevent overeating.
Additionally, Monosaturated fats also promote a healthy metabolism and hormonal balance which is key to fat loss
Like all fats, avocado is high in calories so it is best to consume in moderation to get all its benefits without any drawbacks.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #12: Green Tea
While green tea is not technically a food, it is definitely something to consider including in your diet when it comes to fat loss.
The caffeine in green tea helps speed up your metabolism making you burn more calories just by drinking. It also gives you a boost of energy so it can help you push through your exercise regime and even replace your pre-workout supplements.
Green tea improves metabolism by 5% in just 24 hours and keeps it high throughout the day so your energy will not crush down. It also helps your body flush out toxins and prevent bloating caused by water retention.
It does contain caffeine so consider checking with your doctor before adding it to your diet.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #13: Oats
Oats are one of the healthiest grains out there and they can also help you lose weight due to their high fiber content that keep you feeling full longer than other foods and promotes a healthy digestive system.
This weight loss superfood is high in protein and low in calories, which makes it the perfect food for a flat stomach. Its soluble fiber helps to lower cholesterol and its complex carbs take time to digest keeping you energized and preventing you from breaking your diet.
Having oats in the morning will keep you full until the afternoon curbing your appetite and giving you enough energy for the rest of the day.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #14: Lemon
Lemon can be an ally in your fat loss journey thanks to its high content of riboflavin, Vitamin B, minerals like phosphorus and magnesium, and Vitamin C.
Drinking a cup of lemon water in the morning will help you kickstart your metabolism, boost your hydration and increase your satiety, all factors that contribute to your weight loss
Lemons are also high in pectin fiber that helps avoid hunger cravings and its cleansing properties support the detoxifying process of the body
Vegan Fat Burning Food #15: Ginger
Ginger is commonly known for its anti-inflammatory properties but studies suggest that it can also promote calorie burn and reduce feelings of hunger and cravings, making it a great alternative to help you achieve your fat loss goals.
Because of its ability to suppress appetite, ginger is believed to help promote weight loss along with sppeding it your digestion and stabilizing your blood sugar levels.
If you have a hard time sticking to your diet, adding a piece of ginger to your tea can go a long way.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #16: Quinoa
if you haven’t hopped on board the quinoa train, you will after reading its amazing weight loss properties.
Since this ancient grain is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, it is more satisfying and nutritious than other grains. It is low in calories but it leaves you feeling satisfied for longer periods of time helping you reduce your appetite and avoid cravings
The dietary fiber in quinoa binds to fat and cholesterol, helping your body to absorb and store less of the fat and cholesterol.
In addition, quinoa also contains antioxidants, is rich in essential amino acids, and provides vitamin B 12, which is crucial for losing weight.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #17: Lentils
Because lentils contain virtually no fat but are high in fiber and protein, they are a great food to incorporate in your diet if you are trying to lose fat.
They are a great source of satiating fiber and protein that helps fill you up while keeping your calories low. If you struggle with not being hungry and not being able to stick to your diet, lentils can be a great ally to help you lose fat.
Lentils are high in carbs but only a small amount of those carbs are simple sugars, another percentage is fiber which your body doesn’t absorb, and another are resistant starches which help boost your metabolism.
Additionally, lentils provide 18 grams of protein per cup making them a great source of protein for vegans looking to maintain lean mass while losing fat.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #18: Blueberries
Blueberries might not have ketones as their Raspberry firend but they also have some fat burnig properties that will make you a fan.
Recent study findings suggest that blueberries may influence genes that regulate fat-burning and storage, helping reduce abdominal fat and lower cholesterol.
Plus, research suggests that blueberries may assist in weight loss since they contain the phytochemical C3G that may increase the production of both adiponectin (which enhances fat metabolism) and leptin (which suppresses appetite).
If all these great properties are not enough for you, blueberries are also a sweet, juicy, and delicious treat, at just 80 calories a cup making them the perfect weight loss dessert.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #19: Raspberries
Raspberries contain a chemical element called “ketones” which are claimed to cause the fat within cells to be broken down more effectively, helping your body burn fat faster.
ketones are chemicals your liver produces when you don’t have enough insulin in your body to turn sugar (or glucose) into energy. In this scenario, You need another source of energy, so your body uses fat instead.
Ketones have been included in fat burning supplements due to their ability to suppress appetite, which may help you lose weight by eating less and increase fat burning. (This is also the principle of the Keto Diet.)
In one small study, people who took 200 milligrams of raspberry ketones combined with 1,200 mg of vitamin C daily for 4 weeks lost weight and body fat.
They are also claimed to increase levels of adiponectin, a hormone that helps to regulate metabolism.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #20: Watermelon
Watermelon is one of the best fruits for weight loss since it is almost 92 percent water.
This makes it very low in calories and at the same time very hydrating and filling. The water content in watermelon promotes weight loss by flushing out toxins and curbing your appetite.
It’s also a great source of an amino acid called arginine, which helps burn fat quickly
If you feel like snacking in something sweet, it is a great altenrative to calm your cravings since while keepin your calores low.
Additionally, watermelon is also rich in Vitamins A, B, and C and packed with the chemical, lycopene, which will protect you against heart diseases and cancer.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #21: Papaya
Papaya contains papain, a digestive enzyme that has been shown to help digest proteins and clean the intestinal walls contributing to a healthy digestive system that kickstarts your body’s metabolic rate and increases the fat burning process.
In addition, papaya is also an excellent source of the antioxidant beta-carotene that helps to remove toxins from the body. By removing and eliminating the toxins, it will boost your metabolism and help you lose weight.
The high content of water and fiber in papaya ease digestibility and facilitates the proper functioning of the bowel to prevent constipation and ease bloating.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #22: Almonds
Despite being high in fat, several studies have shown that almonds can be of great help for those looking to lose weight and burn fat. They are low in carbs and high in protein and fiber which are known for increasing feelings of fullness.
One four-week study in 137 participants showed that a daily 1.5-ounce (43-gram) serving of almonds significantly reduced hunger and the desire to eat.
Almonds also contain several nutrients that your body struggles to break down and digest and about 10–15% of the calories in almonds are not absorbed by your body which makes them technically lower in calories than they truly are. Additionally, some evidence suggests that eating nuts can boost metabolism slightly.
In one study, a low-calorie diet with 3 ounces (84 grams) of almonds increased weight loss by 62% compared to a diet enriched with complex carbohydrates and another study in 100 overweight women found that those consuming almonds lost more weight than those on a nut-free diet.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #23: Flax seeds
Flaxseeds are low in calories and rich in protein and dietary fiber making them a great food to help you suppress your appetite and prevent you from overeating, which will result in weight and fat loss.
Ground flaxseeds are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber which will promote a healthy digestive system and help you get rid of bloating and keeping your stomach flat.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #23: Artichokes
Artichokes can be intimidating but they are also a great addition to any weight and fat loss diet since they are low in calories and high in fiber.
Most importantly, artichokes are a natural diuretic, preventing water retention and bloating. They also help to eliminate accumulated toxins waste, supporting the activation of mechanisms that cleanse the body and promote healthy and fast weight loss.
This plant has properties that stimulate the digestion of fats and helps in the reduction of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #25: Chickpeas & Hummus
Chickpeas are another legume that is rich in protein and fiber, both of which can support your fat loss goals
The carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, in chickpeas, keep you satisfied and full for hours while taking good care of your digestive system. A healthy digestive system is key to nutrient absorption, satiety, and a fast metabolism.
Chickpeas can also be eaten as hummus which makes it the perfect dip to eat with veggies when you are on a low-calorie diet.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #26: Dark Chocolate
Not all chocolate is made equal and while some might be mostly sugar and saturated fats, dark chocolate is full of MUFAs (monounsaturated fatty acids) that help curb the cravings for sweet, salt, and fatty foods.
It can also improve insulin sensitivity, reduce hunger and appetite, and enhance your overall mood thus curbing your desire to consume junk food.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that dark chocolate is also high in calories and —depending on the brand—added sugar so be mindful when choosing it and eating it.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #27: Brussels Sprouts
Brussle sproouts belong to the cruciferous vegetable family along with brocolli and cauliflower but they are cosnidered specially good for fat loss bue to its high content of lean muscle-building protein, in addition to fiber,
They are also considered a natural weight-loss food because they are low in fat and calories helping you get some of that vegan protein while staying on track with your diet.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #28: Kiwi
If you had been looking for. anew fat burning food to add to your diet, you can now make space for kiwi.
This fruit contains arabinogalactans, a plant-based fiber, and prebiotic that nourishes friendly bacteria helping to boost your metabolism and improve digestion.
Kiwi also contains the enzyme of actinidain, which supports the digestion of proteins and breakdown of fat molecules, which eventually help in easing bowel movement.
The fiber found within kiwi also kills E. coli and Klebsiella, two bad bacteria that foster excess weight within the body.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #29: Cauliflower
Cauliflower is and super-low in calories and high in fiber which is your best ally when fighting to lose some stubborn fat.
The fiber in cauliflower help you stay full for longer and it also slows down the functioning of your digestive system increasing your sense of satiety.
Perhaps the best thing about cauliflower is that it can be cooked in many different ways giving variety to your diet while keeping the calories low.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #30: Apples
You certainly know the saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” but, did you know that it can also help keep the fat away?
Apples are also high in fiber, which makes you feel full and numerous studies have found that eating an apple a half hour to an hour before a meal results in people naturally reducing the calories they end up eating during such meal.
They are also high in pectin, which binds with water and limits the amount of fat your cells can absorb.
Moreover, thanks to its crunchiness and sweetness, this satisfying snack prevents you from reaching out for other less healthy and more calorie-packed alternatives.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #31: Red Wine
Most people drink wine for pleasure or even for its antiaging benefits but red wine can also promote fat loss Red wine burns calories through a process called thermogenesis which is the same as some fat burning supplements use.
Thermogenesis means that red wine raises your body temperature, causing your body to burn calories to create heat. At the same time, this process lowers your appetite and prevents you from overeating.
Studies have found that women who drink moderate amounts of red wine are less likely to gain weight in their middle age but don’t take this as an incentive to drink wine everyday but rather to choose it over more caloric options if you are going to have a drink anyway.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #32: Cinnamon
Cinnamon is not only a delicious spice to add to your treats but it has also been shown to boosts metabolism in human fat cells targeting the fat deposited in the abdominal area and reduce some of the bad effects of eating high-fat foods.
It can also help in your fat loss journey by suppressing appetite, and curb blood sugar by lowering insulin resistance which can also help your body ultimately lose weight.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #33: Persimmons
Persimmon is known as a weight-loss super fruit because it contains protein, high amounts of just about every vitamins and mineral and plenty of fiber.
They also contain iodine, an important mineral for the thyroid function that helps promote a healthy metabolism.
Additionally, Persimmons are also low in sugar, contain no cholesterol, and are a natural appetite suppressant.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #34: Grapefruit
Since the 1930s grapefruit has been part of many fad diets but while those might not be around anymore, the benefits of this fruit for weight loss prevail and have scientific claims to support them.
A study, conducted with 91 obese adults, showed greater weight loss in those who ate half a fresh grapefruit before meals each day compared to those who ate nothing prior to each meal over a 12-week period.
You don’t need to go on a grapefruit diet to reap the benefits, but simply including them in your diet can bring you closer to your fat loss goals.
Vegan Fat Burning Food #35: Black Beans
All legumes are filled with fiber and protein but black beans are especially beneficial when it comes to fat burning.
Dark-colored beans generally have higher amounts of phenolic compounds, which can help you lose weight by blocking the absorption of carbohydrates.
Additionally, since they are high in resistance starches they can help you burn up to 24% more calories.
Vegan Fat Burning Foods FAQ
1.How do vegans lose weight fast?
Losing weight and body fat as a vegan comes down to more than just adding some fat burning foods to your diet.
Ultimately, weight loss is a result of a caloric deficit which is created when you consume less calories than what your body spends during the day.
It has been shown than a vegan diet is conducive to a natural weight loss since plants tend to be less calorically dense than meats and dairy which explain why people who go vegan usually lose weight without even trying.
If you want to succeed in your weight loss and fat loss goals, the best way is to figure out your caloric needs and cut down on the number of calories you consume.
There is no secrets diet or hack that can replace what a caloric deficit will do. You can follow the steps in this guide to learn exactly How To Lose Weight As a Vegan.
2. Can you lose belly fat on a vegan diet?
Yes, a vegan diet made of mostly whole foods will provide you with the fiber and nutrients necessary to stay full for longer, keep a healthy digestive system, and boost your metabolism.
In order to help your body lose some of that stubborn belly fat, it is important that you keep a balanced diet where 15%-25% of your calories come from plant-based protein. This will help you maintain your muscle mass which is key to a healthy metabolism and a lean and toned physique.
For more tips on how to lose belly fat make sure to check out this article on with 6 Tips To Lose A Muffin Top.
3. Why am I gaining weight / not losing weight on a vegan diet?
If you are not losing weight or even gaining weight on a vegan diet, it might be due to some of the following reasons:
- You are eating more calories than you are burning. The most important factor for weight loss is a caloric deficit so I’d recommend checking your caloric needs and track the calories you are eating for a few days. If you find out you are eating more calories than what you are burning you have already find the reason for your weight gain.
- You are eating too many fats. Not all calories are created the same way and when it comes to weight loss, you only need to eat a 10%-15% of your calories from fats. Eating too many fats regardless of them being plant-based will cause your body to store them as fat.
- You are retaining some extra water. When people first transition to a vegan diet, the amount of fiber and glucose you consume increases versus a regular omnivore diet. This can cause some temporary weight gain but if that is the case, your body should get used to it and return to its previous weight in a couple of weeks.
4. How long does it take to lose weight on a vegan diet?
A healthy and long term sustainable weight loss can be from 1 to 2 pounds a week depending on your diet, lifestyle and exercise regime and goals.
Trying to lose too much weight too quickly can result in damaging your metabolism, rebounding, and an overall negative relationship with food so I don’t recommend trying to lose more than 2 pounds a week.
Bottom Line
There are many vegan foods that can promote fat burn and weight loss especially when combined with a healthy whole foods diet and a consistent caloric deficit.
Have you heard of these foods? Which one of these are you going to try? Let me know in the comments below!