Did you know it’s a myth that a calorie is a calorie? One animal study found that monkeys fed foods high in man-made trans fat gained four times more weight and 30% more belly fat compared to animals who munched on meals made with natural plant-based fat. Recent studies have also revealed that some foods rev up metabolism in the hours after eating, which offsets some of their calorie cost. Also, research shows that we burn about 50% more calories metabolizing whole foods versus processed foods, and that eating more plant-based foods triggers your body to burn more calories. Bottom line: instead of zeroing in on calories alone, focus on the quality of what you eat. Reach for more fresh foods, foods as close to their natural state as possible, and incorporate more veggies, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, and plant-based fats, like avocado into your diet. Quality is king!