You know what they say, an apple a day keeps the doctor away! But in all seriousness, apples are not only delicious, they’re also full of fibre and contain tons of antioxidants, which really will keep sickness at bay and your waist nice and trim.

Pure, dark cocoa powder is a key ingredient in many decadent desserts and can elevate plain foods to the next level (e.g. mix some cocoa powder into milk for homemade chocolate milk without the additives and sweeteners!) without comprising your weight-loss goals!

(Read more: 10 Must-Have Kitchen Gadgets To Help You Eat Healthier)

Many people often have dairy intolerances that can crop up anytime during the course of their lives. This can lead to distension and bloating but by switching to nut milks made out of almonds, cashews or hazelnuts, those looking to slim down need not miss out of the benefits of calcium in their diet.

If you’re looking for a fast and nutritious breakfast on rushed mornings, nothing beats oatmeal. Not only is it full of macronutrients that are good for your body, it’s also a complex carb that releases energy throughout the day instead of all at once. Just remember to buy the unsweetened, non-instant variety and watch the kilos drop off.

(Read more: 9 Food Myths That You Should Stop Believing)

Give your meals a tastier and more satisfying twist of flavour with extra-virgin olive oil. Try choosing a brand that packs its oil in a dark bottle and labels it as ‘first cold-pressed’ as this will ensure that it’ll be rich in anti-inflammatory, heart-healthy mono-unsaturated fats that will help keep you svelte.

You’ve heard it time and time again: dark, leafy greens like spinach or broccoli are nutrition powerhouses and are key to losing weight, fast! But many of us still get distracted at the supermarket by all those fancy snacks. Try to steer yourself away from the candy aisle and instead, pick up more vegetables and fruits.

(Read more: 10 Foods Dieticians Wish You Would Stop Buying)

Chickpeas are a great protein source and should be included at least once a week into your dinner plan if you’re looking to slim down. Just a single half-cup serving of these little yellow blobs provides six grams of fiber, and is a also a fine source of iron, magnesium, phosphorous, folate, copper, and manganese.

Always try to scoop of tubs of unsweetened Greek yogurt for a probiotic burst of health that will keep your digestive system happily moving along. Packed with protein and important nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, this is the one item dieticians love eating every day to manage their waistlines.

(Read more: 10 Natural Food Cures For Different Types Of Aches And Pains)