Asian meal plan for weight loss
The Asian meal plan for weight loss emphasizes low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods prevalent in Asian cuisine. It includes a variety of vegetables, lean proteins such as fish, chicken, tofu, and legumes. Whole grains like brown rice and quinoa are used instead of refined grains. Portion control and minimal use of oil ensure calorie reduction for effective weight loss.
Meal plan grocery list
Tofu
Salmon
Chicken breast
Shrimp
Cod fillets
Edamame beans
Mixed nuts
Fresh fruits
Fresh vegetables
Avocado
Seaweed
Brown rice
Quinoa
Dumpling wrappers
Oatmeal
Almond milk
Peanut butter
Honey
Coconut milk
Bananas
Whole grain bread
Greek yogurt
Chia seeds
Soba noodles
Meal plan overview
Lose weight with the flavorful Asian meal plan for weight loss. This plan focuses on low-calorie, nutrient-rich Asian dishes that are satisfying and healthful.
Emphasizing fresh produce, lean proteins, and a variety of spices, it’s an enjoyable way to achieve weight loss goals.
Foods to eat
- Low-Glycemic Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, and bottle gourd cooked with minimal oil.
- Lean Protein Sources: Grilled fish, chicken, and dal for balanced meals.
- Complex Carbohydrates: Whole wheat chapatis, brown rice, and oatmeal in controlled portions.
- Low-Fat Dairy: Skim milk and low-fat yogurt to reduce saturated fat intake.
- Fiber-Rich Fruits: Apples, pears, and oranges in moderation.
- Healthy Fats: Nuts and seeds like almonds and flaxseeds in small quantities.
- Ample Water: Along with herbal teas like green tea for hydration and metabolism.
- Herbs and Spices: Turmeric, cinnamon, and fenugreek for their blood sugar regulating properties.
✅ Tip
Foods not to eat
- High-Sugar Sweets: Indian sweets like ladoo and barfi which are high in sugar.
- Refined Grains: White rice and bread which can spike blood sugar levels.
- Fried Snacks: Avoid high-calorie, high-fat snacks like puris and bhaturas.
- Full-Fat Dairy: Creamy curries and full-fat milk products.
- Sweetened Beverages: Sugary drinks and lassis.
- Processed Foods: Packaged snacks and meals which are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
- Excessive Use of Oils: Opt for minimal oil cooking with healthier options.
- Alcohol: Can affect blood sugar management.
Main benefits
The Indian meal plan for diabetics is designed to help regulate blood sugar levels. It includes low-glycemic-index foods like whole grains, pulses, and leafy greens. The use of whole spices, known for their blood sugar regulating properties, enhances the dishes. High fiber content from vegetables and whole grains aids in stabilizing blood sugar, making it suitable for diabetics.
🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
An Asian meal plan for weight loss can be effective and enjoyable with these substitutions:
- For a lean protein source, use shrimp instead of red meat.
- Cauliflower rice can replace regular rice to reduce carb intake.
- Include edamame beans as a snack for added protein and fiber.
- Use zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of traditional pasta for a low-calorie meal.
- For a healthy fat source, add avocado to salads and sandwiches.
How to budget on this meal plan
Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
Try these light Asian snacks suitable for weight loss:
- Kimchi
- Steamed edamame
- Rice paper rolls with shrimp and fresh herbs
- Grilled chicken skewers
- Cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing
- Steamed broccoli with a touch of soy sauce
- Fresh papaya slices
What should I drink on this meal plan?
In an Asian diet for weight loss, water remains essential. Green tea aids in metabolism, while oolong tea can support weight management. Barley tea is a satisfying, low-calorie choice, and fresh fruit juices should be consumed in moderation for their nutrients.
How to get even more nutrients?
Meal plan suggestion
Asian Meal Plan for Weight Loss
Day 1
- Breakfast: Vegetable Miso Soup with Tofu (calories: 200, protein: 10g, carbs: 18g, fat: 6g)
- Lunch: Sushi Bowl with Brown Rice, Avocado, Cucumber, and Seaweed (calories: 350, protein: 12g, carbs: 45g, fat: 12g)
- Snack: Edamame Beans (calories: 100, protein: 8g, carbs: 8g, fat: 4g)
- Dinner: Grilled Teriyaki Salmon with Steamed Broccoli (calories: 400, protein: 25g, carbs: 20g, fat: 18g)
Day 2
- Breakfast: Steamed Vegetable Dumplings (calories: 250, protein: 8g, carbs: 35g, fat: 8g)
- Lunch: Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Brown Rice (calories: 350, protein: 20g, carbs: 40g, fat: 12g)
- Snack: Fresh Fruit Salad (calories: 120, protein: 2g, carbs: 30g, fat: 1g)
- Dinner: Tofu and Vegetable Curry with a side of Quinoa (calories: 400, protein: 18g, carbs: 45g, fat: 14g)
Day 3
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with Chopped Nuts and a Dash of Cinnamon (calories: 300, protein: 8g, carbs: 40g, fat: 12g)
- Lunch: Vietnamese Spring Rolls with Shrimp and Fresh Vegetables (calories: 350, protein: 15g, carbs: 35g, fat: 12g)
- Snack: A handful of Almonds (calories: 150, protein: 6g, carbs: 6g, fat: 14g)
- Dinner: Baked Cod with a side of Stir-Fried Greens (calories: 400, protein: 30g, carbs: 20g, fat: 18g)
Day 4
- Breakfast: Banana and Almond Milk Smoothie (calories: 250, protein: 5g, carbs: 40g, fat: 7g)
- Lunch: Thai Salad with Grilled Tofu and a Peanut Dressing (calories: 350, protein: 15g, carbs: 30g, fat: 18g)
- Snack: Greek Yogurt with Honey and Berries (calories: 200, protein: 10g, carbs: 25g, fat: 5g)
- Dinner: Korean Bibimbap with Brown Rice, Assorted Vegetables, and a Fried Egg (calories: 400, protein: 15g, carbs: 55g, fat: 15g)
Day 5
- Breakfast: Scrambled Eggs with Spinach and Mushrooms (calories: 300, protein: 20g, carbs: 15g, fat: 18g)
- Lunch: Japanese Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame and Carrots (calories: 350, protein: 12g, carbs: 50g, fat: 10g)
- Snack: Sliced Cucumber with Hummus (calories: 100, protein: 4g, carbs: 10g, fat: 5g)
- Dinner: Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and a side of Cauliflower Rice (calories: 350, protein: 18g, carbs: 30g, fat: 15g)
Day 6
- Breakfast: Whole Wheat Toast with Avocado (calories: 300, protein: 8g, carbs: 30g, fat: 15g)
- Lunch: Lentil Soup with a side of Mixed Greens Salad (calories: 350, protein: 15g, carbs: 40g, fat: 10g)
- Snack: A small Apple and a handful of Walnuts (calories: 150, protein: 4g, carbs: 20g, fat: 8g)
- Dinner: Grilled Chicken with a side of Asian-style Slaw (calories: 400, protein: 30g, carbs: 25g, fat: 20g)
Day 7
- Breakfast: Chia Seed Pudding with Almond Milk and Berries (calories: 250, protein: 6g, carbs: 30g, fat: 10g)
- Lunch: Veggie Sushi Rolls with a side of Edamame Beans (calories: 350, protein: 15g, carbs: 50g, fat: 10g)
- Snack: Dried Seaweed Snacks (calories: 50, protein: 2g, carbs: 5g, fat: 2g)
- Dinner: Stir-Fried Shrimp with Bell Peppers and a side of Brown Rice (calories: 400, protein: 25g, carbs: 40g, fat: 15g)
Want to learn more?
- Weight management using a meal replacement strategy: meta and pooling analysis from six studies
- Randomized Trial of a High Protein, Partial Meal Replacement Program with or without Alternate Day Fasting: Similar Effects on Weight Loss, Retention Status, Nutritional, Metabolic, and Behavioral Outcomes
⚠️ Keep in mind
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on Feb 29, 2024
- Updated on Nov 22, 2024