The ten best foods for weight loss: slim down this winter by feasting on the following foods--each works in a unique way to help you drop pounds.

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Every winter, a number of animals--bears, ground squirrels, prairie dogs, and even some humans--go into hibernation. They burrow into their dens, trees, holes, or bulky sweaters and move as little as possible; metabolism slows, and pounds are safeguarded. As temperatures warm, some of these species--bears, ground squirrels, and prairie dogs--emerge to joyfully celebrate spring. Other species--certain humans--remain in bulky sweaters for as long as possible.

Why is it that losing weight is so hard in the winter? Like hibernation, conserving calories is only natural. As temperatures drop, so do our activity levels. Blustery weather makes us crave hearty, filling foods; pot roast and heavily buttered rolls are more appetizing than melon and leafy greens. And with shorter days and decreased sunlight, our levels of serotonin--a neurotransmitter in the brain--naturally decrease. When serotonin levels drop, food consumption increases. Low serotonin levels also impact mood, which can further encourage unhealthful munching.

Lucky for us, certain foods and nutrients have been shown to help prevent weight gain and encourage slimming, mainly by increasing feelings of fullness, warming the body, improving serotonin levels in the brain, and satisfying cravings. Try these foods; they'll bring you out of hibernation and have you ready to shed your sweaters come spring.

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1. Beans are loaded with protein, which can boost weight loss. In one study, women who exercised regularly and ate a reduced-calorie diet high in protein lost more fat and less muscle than those who ate a similar diet high in carbohydrates. Additionally, beans are rich in fiber, which increases satiety and prolongs emptying of the stomach, making us feel fuller, longer. On your plate: Add baby spinach leaves, chopped tomatoes, and minced onions and cilantro to a pot of black beans, and serve with warm corn tortillas. Add tomato sauce, garlic, and Indian spices to chickpeas, and serve over brown rice.

2. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, which helps promote weight loss by increasing fullness and postponing hunger after meals. Studies have shown that eating an additional 14 grams of fiber a day can help decrease consumption of foods by 10 percent and increase weight loss; study results are similar to those noted in a low-fat diet. Other great sources of fiber include beans, oat bran, artichokes, and dates. On your plate: Combine cubed sweet potatoes with onions, garlic, turnips, and Brussels sprouts; toss with olive oil and minced rosemary and roast until tender. Mash baked sweet potatoes with grated orange peel and a bit of maple syrup for a sweet and simple side.