{"id":688641,"date":"2026-01-11T09:49:19","date_gmt":"2026-01-11T09:49:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/688641\/"},"modified":"2026-01-11T09:49:19","modified_gmt":"2026-01-11T09:49:19","slug":"the-12-powerfoods-that-will-help-you-lose-weight-fast-theyre-packed-with-nutrients-keep-you-full-and-work-whether-youre-on-jabs-or-not-says-top-nutritionist-rob-hobson-its-time-to-look-and-feel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/688641\/","title":{"rendered":"The 12 powerfoods that will help you lose weight fast: They&#8217;re packed with nutrients, keep you full and work whether you&#8217;re on jabs or not, says top nutritionist ROB HOBSON. It&#8217;s time to look and feel amazing this year"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">There are so many reasons to shrink your food portions. Perhaps you\u2019re trying to shift a bit of <a style=\"font-weight: bold;\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dailymail.co.uk\/news\/christmas\/index.html\" id=\"mol-16250a20-ee3c-11f0-89d9-d1ba3d346bd4\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Christmas<\/a> weight, or maybe your appetite is suppressed by weight-loss jabs or illness. But if you\u2019re eating less, it is extremely important to eat well.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">As a nutritionist, I understand the importance of helping people meet their nutritional needs in fewer bites.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">I know that the less you eat, the harder the food on your plate has to work for you.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">This is the concept behind my new guide, The Low Appetite Cookbook, serialised exclusively this weekend in the Mail.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Yesterday, I introduced my \u2018Rule of Four\u2019, which lays out the simple but effective principles for maximising the nutrition and appeal of any small plate of food.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Today, I reveal my superfoods \u2013 the \u2018Nourishing Dozen\u2019 \u2013 that everyone needs to have on their shopping list.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Both provide a key to retaining optimal health if you\u2019re one of the estimated 1.6 million Britons on weight-loss jabs, or if you are worrying about maintaining your weight when you stop.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">To find a delicious selection of recipes that I have carefully crafted to deliver solid nutrition in small volumes \u2013 using flavour, colour and texture to satisfy your appetite \u2013 see <a style=\"font-weight: bold;\" target=\"_self\" class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dailymail.co.uk\/lifestyle\/food-drink\/article-15439541\/FOOD.html\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">my compilation here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>   <img decoding=\"async\" id=\"i-cf381a2f80dcc295\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/105402865-15451887-Nutritionist_Rob_Hobson_offers_key_advice_for_those_eating_small-m-8_176806324457.jpeg\" height=\"913\" width=\"634\" alt=\"Nutritionist Rob Hobson offers key advice for those eating smaller portions due to weight-loss jabs, appetite suppression because of illness, or a bid to shift a bit of Christmas weight\" class=\"blkBorder img-share\" style=\"max-width:100%\" loading=\"lazy\" \/>   <\/p>\n<p class=\"imageCaption\">Nutritionist Rob Hobson offers key advice for those eating smaller portions due to weight-loss jabs, appetite suppression because of illness, or a bid to shift a bit of Christmas weight<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">As these meals are rich in protein, fibre and essential micronutrients, they deliver genuine satiety and nourishment, meaning you\u2019re far more likely to feel satisfied and much less tempted to reach for an ultra-processed snack.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Who wouldn\u2019t be tempted by baked eggs with spiced chickpeas and garlic yogurt or creamy parmesan orzo with wilted greens, beans and lemon?<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">These clever combinations of nutrients and flavours will ensure you feel nutritionally satisfied with smaller portions.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">At the core of my \u2018small plates big impact\u2019 philosophy lie 12 powerhouse foods that I have specially selected for their ability to deliver maximum nutrition in small servings.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">By building your meals and snacks around my \u2018Nourishing Dozen\u2019 you can be confident you will be supporting muscle maintenance, bone health, energy levels, brain function and gut health \u2013 all areas that really matter when you are eating less.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Nothing exotic, expensive or only available from fancy stores \u2013 these key ingredients are easy to find, quick to prepare and budget-friendly.<\/p>\n<p>The Nourishing Dozen<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Use the Nourishing Dozen as inspiration to draw up a short list of easy, balanced meals which you can fall back on when decision-fatigue strikes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">These meals should be low effort, feel achievable and bring some satisfaction.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Having this personal shortlist means you won\u2019t find yourself standing in front of the fridge wondering what to eat.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"mol-bullets-with-font\">\n<li class=\"\">Eggs \u2013 one of the best all-rounders. They are packed with high-quality protein, vitamin B12, choline (a nutrient important for brain health) and iron.<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Tinned fish \u2013 tuna, salmon, sardines or mackerel \u2013 provide lean protein in a convenient format. Oily fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fats for heart and brain health.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Tofu \u2013 a gentle source of complete plant protein, along with calcium and iron. Its soft texture and neutral flavour make it easy to digest and ideal when your appetite is low. Pick firm tofu for stir-fries or baking and \u2018silken\u2019 for blending into soups and sauces.<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Oats \u2013 provide beta-glucan fibre for heart and gut health and slow-release carbohydrates for energy. Oats also help to regulate blood sugar.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Tinned beans\/lentils \u2013 full of fibre, plant protein and essential minerals such as iron, magnesium and folate. They are quick to use and easily added to soups, stews and salads.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Nut butters \u2013 energy-dense and a source of healthy unsaturated fats, vitamin E and a small amount of protein in a serving. A teaspoonful can add nourishment and creaminess to porridge, toast or smoothies.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Avocado \u2013 rich in mono- unsaturated fats, fibre and potassium. Its naturally soft texture and mild flavour make it a good option when your appetite or digestion is sensitive.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Yogurt (Greek, fortified plant-based or Skyr) \u2013 high in protein and calcium and often contains live bacteria to support gut health. Fortified plant-based versions can also provide vitamins B12 and D. Yogurt works well as a snack, for breakfast or as a creamy base for other dishes. Skyr is a high-protein yogurt, originating in Iceland, which adds richness without excess fat.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Dark leafy greens \u2013 spinach, kale and chard \u2013 are highly nutritious, offering folate, iron, magnesium and vitamin K. A small handful significantly increases the nutritional quality of any meal.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Edamame \u2013 these green soya beans are a complete plant protein, which contain significant amounts of all nine essential amino acids. They are also rich in fibre, folate and iron. Convenient when bought frozen, edamame beans can be added to stir-fries, bowls or soups without changing the flavour. Their vibrant colour is also visually appealing.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Seeds \u2013 rich in healthy fats, magnesium, zinc and plant-based protein. Sprinkle seeds on yogurt, porridge or salads.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Poultry \u2013 chicken and turkey provide lean protein, B vitamins, selenium and iron. Add cooked slices to soups or salads.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Your shopping list   <img decoding=\"async\" id=\"i-731b9e1e89d39cab\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/105402945-15451887-image-m-5_1768063003463.jpg\" height=\"343\" width=\"634\" alt=\"Nuts can be a nutritious snack when energy levels are low, and are a store-cupboard staple\" class=\"blkBorder img-share\" style=\"max-width:100%\" loading=\"lazy\" \/>   <\/p>\n<p class=\"imageCaption\">Nuts can be a nutritious snack when energy levels are low, and are a store-cupboard staple<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Here&#8217;s your \u2018small plates BIG nutrition\u2019 shopping list, which will stock your fridge and cupboards with nutritious, low-effort staples.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">They can form the building blocks of meals and nutritious snacks when energy levels are low or you don\u2019t feel like cooking.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font mol-style-medium mol-style-bold\">Basics in your store cupboard<\/p>\n<ul class=\"mol-bullets-with-font\">\n<li class=\"\">Tinned legumes (chickpeas, cannellini, black beans, lentils)<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Tinned oily fish (sardines, mackerel, salmon)\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Tinned tomatoes and tomato puree (for fast sauces and soups)\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Nut butters and tahini\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Wholegrain oatcakes, crispbreads, crackers\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Seeds and nuts\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Protein powders (plant or whey-based)\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Long-life plant milks (fortified with calcium and vitamin D)\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Grains: brown rice, quinoa, wholemeal pasta, quick-cook spelt (dry and ready-cooked pouches), oats\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Cartons of vegetable and chicken stock \u2013 decant into smaller vessels and freeze<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Herbs, spices, flavour pastes (pesto, tahini, soy sauce, miso, harissa)\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Silken tofu\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font mol-style-medium mol-style-bold\">Fridge essentials<\/p>\n<ul class=\"mol-bullets-with-font\">\n<li class=\"\">Eggs<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Greek or fortified soya yogurt\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Avocados\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Dips such as hummus or guacamole Leafy greens (spinach, rocket, chard, pak choi, cabbage)\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Raw and pre-cooked chicken and turkey\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Firm tofu\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Fresh herbs or citrus (lemon, lime, grapefruit)\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Cottage cheese, feta\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font mol-style-medium mol-style-bold\">Freezer staples<\/p>\n<ul class=\"mol-bullets-with-font\">\n<li class=\"\">Frozen vegetables (spinach, peas, mixed)<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Frozen edamame (shelled)\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Frozen berries (for smoothies, breakfasts)\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Cooked grains (freeze in small bags)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Simple tricks to keep those cravings at bay<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">I hope everyone taking weight-loss medication will use my \u2018small plates BIG nutrition\u2019 principles to ensure you optimise your health throughout your journey.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">If you have been eating well while appetite is suppressed, you are in the best position to adapt to real-world eating when food noise returns.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">When the medication wears off you will start to feel hunger again. Don\u2019t fight it. Instead, respond calmly.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Ask yourself: \u2018Am I hungry, or tired, bored or stressed?\u2019<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Try the \u2018pause, anchor, decide\u2019 approach:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"mol-bullets-with-font\">\n<li class=\"\">When cravings strike, pause and name that feeling \u2013 is this food noise, not real hunger?<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Anchor that feeling with a protein-and-fibre snack you trust (see my healthy snacks list below).\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Wait ten minutes, then decide \u2013 are you still hungry? If the answer is yes, prepare a proper snack or a healthy \u2018Rule of Four\u2019 meal and eat it properly with no guilt.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Support your willpower by following my \u2018Rule of Four\u2019 formula and eating foods that stimulate natural production of GLP, the hormone that signals fullness to the brain.<\/p>\n<p>   <img decoding=\"async\" id=\"i-8971b75c35131d56\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/105403057-15451887-image-m-35_1768063539890.jpg\" height=\"871\" width=\"634\" alt=\"Avocado, poultry and dark leafy greens are just some of the Nourishing Dozen\" class=\"blkBorder img-share\" style=\"max-width:100%\" loading=\"lazy\" \/>   <\/p>\n<p class=\"imageCaption\">Avocado, poultry and dark leafy greens are just some of the Nourishing Dozen<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">The \u2018Rule of Four\u2019 encourages you to eat protein first, fibre (colour) second, then healthy fats for satisfaction and carbohydrates last.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">These foods help stimulate the natural release of GLP and other satiety hormones in the gut. They can\u2019t achieve the GLP-1 levels the medication might deliver, but can help your body do more of the work naturally.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">That\u2019s because protein, fibre and fat slow digestion, support steadier blood sugar and help appetite settle.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Mindful eating is a useful skill, too. Always sit to eat quietly at a table \u2013 never eat standing or scrolling on a phone.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Don\u2019t skip meals to stay in control, as this usually backfires. It\u2019s much harder to control consumption if you start eating when you\u2019re famished, so aim to eat small, regular nutritionally-packed meals. Start eating when you are slightly hungry and stop when you feel comfortable.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">You may need to slightly increase portion sizes when you stop weight-loss medication. It\u2019s best to add vegetables before turning to refined carbohydrates.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Make your home work for you \u2013 ensure there are plenty of protein and fibre-rich foods available, so good decisions don\u2019t rely on willpower.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Focus on muscle. Long-term weight maintenance depends more on muscle than metabolism.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Eat protein at every meal, do strength training two to three times a week and walk each day.<\/p>\n<p>Eat small when dining out\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Dining out can be challenging if you\u2019re trying to keep portions small or have little appetite. Large portions, unfamiliar menus and social expectations can make gatherings harder to navigate.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Remember you don\u2019t need to finish everything on your plate, match others\u2019 eating habits or explain your choices. Focus on what works for your appetite and energy levels.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Look for menus that offer flexibility, small plates, half portions or build-your-own combinations using the \u2018Rule of Four\u2019 I outline above (protein + colour + healthy fats + wholegrains).<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font mol-style-medium mol-style-bold\">At a restaurant<\/p>\n<ul class=\"mol-bullets-with-font\">\n<li class=\"\">Eat at your own pace<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Take food home for later\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Order two starters or small plates instead of a main meal on the menu\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Choose a \u2018light bites\u2019 menu or soup with a side of vegetables\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Ask if the kitchen can serve a half portion or package half of your meal to go\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Share a dish if portions are large\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font mol-style-medium mol-style-bold\">At a cafe<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Avoid empty calories (chocolate bars and crisps) and look out for small, easy, fibre-rich extras such as a pouch of edamame beans, a small pack of roasted chickpeas, a mini fruit and nut snack pack, or a sprinkle of mixed seeds from a salad bar.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Options to consider:\u00a0<\/p>\n<ul class=\"mol-bullets-with-font\">\n<li class=\"\">Protein pots (eggs, prawns, hummus, falafel)\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Edamame beans\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Hummus with carrot sticks\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Boiled eggs\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Greek yogurt and oat or chia pots\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Soup pots or broths\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Wholefood salad boxes with protein\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Sushi (sashimi and protein salads)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&#8230; And how to snack smartly\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">When your appetite is low and portions are small, snacks are essential chances to put extra nutrients into your diet.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">The most effective snacks combine protein (for strength and satiety) with fibre (for digestion and fullness).<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">These pairings help you feel energised and nourished between meals. The art of nutritional \u2018turbo snacking\u2019 is: base + protein + flavour.<\/p>\n<p>   <img decoding=\"async\" id=\"i-bd589da8630755d2\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/105402933-15451887-image-a-7_1768063086131.jpg\" height=\"372\" width=\"306\" alt=\"Rob Hobson's new book, The Low Appetite Cookbook, is out now\" class=\"blkBorder img-share\" style=\"max-width:100%\" loading=\"lazy\" \/>   <\/p>\n<p class=\"imageCaption\">Rob Hobson&#8217;s new book, The Low Appetite Cookbook, is out now<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">When short on time, energy or appetite, this is your fast-track formula for snacks with variety, texture and flavour.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Start with a neutral base such as wholegrain toast, oatcakes, seeded crackers, rice cakes, rye crackers or vegetable slices.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Add protein to support muscle and energy (lean meat, eggs, beans, tofu or fish).<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Add flavour in the form of spice, crunch or sweetness.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Try these simple combos:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"mol-bullets-with-font\">\n<li class=\"\">Oatcakes + nut butter + cinnamon or chopped dates<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Wholegrain toast + boiled egg + sea salt &amp; black pepper\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Seeded cracker + hummus + za\u2019atar or chilli flakes or cucumber\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Rice cakes + cottage cheese + cherry tomatoes or herbs\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Seeded bread + smoked salmon + dill or chives\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Rye cracker + smoked mackerel + mashed avocado\u00a0<\/li>\n<li class=\"\">Rye bread + boiled egg + tomato\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"mol-para-with-font\">Adapted from The Low Appetite Cookbook, by Rob Hobson (Thorsons, \u00a318.99). \u00a9 Rob Hobson 2025.\u00a0To order a copy for \u00a316.14 (offer valid to 24\/01\/26; UK P&amp;P free on offers over \u00a325) go to <a style=\"font-weight: bold;\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/books.mailshop.co.uk\/the-low-appetite-cookbook-9780008783167\/\">www.mailshop.co.uk\/books<\/a> or call 020 3176 2937.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"There are so many reasons to shrink your food portions. Perhaps you\u2019re trying to shift a bit of&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":688642,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_share_on_mastodon":"0"},"categories":[11],"tags":[92,368,105,16,15],"class_list":["post-688641","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-health","tag-dailymail","tag-femail","tag-health","tag-uk","tag-united-kingdom"],"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@uk\/115875844468844889","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/688641","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=688641"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/688641\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/688642"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=688641"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=688641"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=688641"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}