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Health Alert: Indulge To Lose Weight

PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ― How does a juicy steak sound, or maybe ice cream? They are usually off limits for dieters, but according to a new study, you might be able to indulge.

Different studies have shown that foods you might think of as bad can actually help you lose weight, especially around your middle. Ice cream tops the list.

Amy Virus, a nutritionist with Temple University, says some studies show ice cream contains calcium which can boost weight loss. It also has conjugated linoleic acid, a good fat important for metabolism.

"It will help target weight loss in specific areas of your body specifically the waist is what some of the thoughts are. But it's really not a proven fact yet," said Amy.

Another slimming surprise, certain meats including Canadian bacon.

"It comes from the loin of the pork. So it's naturally lower in fat," said Amy.

And while a nice big juicy red steak seems like a diet no-no, it does have some benefits.

"You actually feel fuller longer by eating a source of protein," said Amy.

That's because protein in meat takes longer to digest. So, while you might be consuming more calories, you eat less.

The best choice is round or loin cuts that have less fat, but remember portion control, no more than the size of a deck of cards.
"It comes down to the portion that you're eating," said Amy.

That is how you fit pizza into your diet especially if you use a whole wheat crust with veggies and add fiber which can speed up weight loss.

Throw in some exercise, especially ab work, and you'll see the good side of bad foods.

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