What Counts As A Green Food On Noom?

When it comes to dieting and meal tracking, there are a host of various apps to use. Noom, however, isn't your typical meal tracking app. Instead, the Noom app is backed by a blend of behavioral science and personalized coaching to help users reach their health goals. According to Popsugar, it simplifies the meal-tracking process, labeling foods as green (eat as much as you want), yellow (eat these moderately), and red (limit these calorie-dense foods). That's right: The colors mimic the function of a stoplight to help guide you as you delve into your meals. But what counts as green-approved foods?

On the green list, you'll find nutrient-rich foods that are also low in calories, such as veggies and fruits. Some vegetables Popsugar suggests eating include broccoli, sweet potatoes, cucumbers, leafy greens, and carrots. Fruits to munch include berries, peaches, watermelon, citrus fruits, and apples. Try eating them raw or drinking some fruit-infused water for extra hydration benefits.

Besides fruits and veggies, whole grains and non-fat dairy options are also green-list-approved, points out SFGate. Think whole-grain breads, pastas, quinoa, brown rice, or rolled oats, as well as non-fat milk, yogurt, or cottage cheese. If you're craving some additional protein, then egg whites, prawns, and crab meat are all labeled as green-friendly foods.

If you're wondering why there's no calorie counts for green foods, Noom explains that "the more green the better!" But why? According to USA Today, since green foods are so nutrient-rich with a low calorie density, no limit is given. Plus, these foods also help you feel fuller.

As a bonus, entire meals can be made around green-approved foods. For instance, a homemade Greek salad (i.e. leafy greens, tomatoes, red onions), plus a slice of whole-grain toast, is a complete green meal (via Noom). To make it even more filling, Noom suggests pairing it with yellow foods such as hard-boiled eggs, hummus, or grilled chicken breast.

Still unsure how to structure your plate with Noom? Women's Health suggests following this rule when building daily meals: Green foods should represent 30% of food choices, while yellow foods should make up 45%, and red foods 25%.

Keep in mind, the color system isn't meant to label green foods as "good" and red foods as "bad." Instead, think of the color system as a guide to nutrient density, teaching you how to identify which foods give you the most nutritious bang for your buck. Before starting Noom, talk to your physician if you have any serious medical conditions or food allergies/intolerances.