We all know how important it is to remain active in order to be fit and healthy, but we also need to be mindful of what we eat without depriving ourselves in the process, and there are some fabulous ways to fight fat WITH food. Whilst it might be tempting to skip meals in the hope of losing those extra pounds, you need to ensure you're consistently and regularly giving your body the right fuels to enable it to burn fat effectively. So here are some simple ways to fight fat with food by feeding your face (within reason of course!).
One of the ways to fight fat with food is through regular consumption of fats. Yes, you heard correctly. There are some fabulous fats you can incorporate into your diet without sabotaging your weight loss goals. It's all about the RIGHT fats, and there are some right fats and WRONG fats. The wrong fats are trans fats, which are found in processed foods and should be avoided at all costs. The right fats are those found in foods such as nuts, avocados and oily fish like salmon and mackerel. These will actually help promote weight loss as they will help keep you fuller for longer.
I know it's not 'food' but water is essential for life - without it, there wouldn't be any! We actually lose about 1/2 a pint of water a day, simply through the act of breathing. Water is essential for so many reasons. For example, it helps the body eliminate waste products, regulates the body's temperature, lubricates the eyes and joints, flushes infections out of the bladder and kidneys AND improves your complexion. Amazing. Remember to stay hydrated throughout the day. I drink about 2 litres of water a day and yes, I do spend half of my time in the ladies. Quite often we also mistake thirst for hunger, so when you're feeling hungry, have a glass of water and see if it really was hunger or whether you were just thirsty. Dehydration can also lead to headaches and a lack of concentration, so make sure you carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go.
You don't need to be a genius to know that excessive consumption of sugar in your diet can really hinder weight loss. Obesity and diabetes are often associated with consuming too much of the white (or brown) stuff. I never condone depriving yourself and of course, if you fancy that sweet treat then go ahead! But remember the mantra, everything in moderation. Beware of foods with the low fat label too, which are actually high in sugar and play havoc with your energy levels. Instead, opt for snacks such as nuts and seeds which won't give you that quick sugar kick and are less likely to leave you reaching for another snack shortly after. There are also ways of satisfying your sweet tooth cravings - for example, with cinnamon or a spoonful of honey.
I'm talking fibre, ladies. This is another essential component of your diet and if you're looking to fight fat with food, fight fat with fibre! Fibre will keep you fuller for longer, as the time in which it takes for the food to leave the stomach is delayed. Make sure your diet consists of fibre rich foods such as whole-grains, oats, fruit and legumes.
Protein is another component which should be added to your daily diet. Combining protein and carbohydrates will help curb hunger so it's important to make sure that protein is added into every meal. Protein is also important for recovery after exercise and for the body to maintain lean muscle. Some great sources of protein include pulses, tofu and lean meats such as turkey or chicken.
This is one thing you really shouldn't do, as missing meals will just play havoc with your metabolism. You body needs regular fuel and the right fuel in order to keep your metabolism raised. You body is such a beautiful and complex machine with so many components. It therefore needs fuel for the brain to function effectively, as well as everything else. Keep healthy snacks such as fruit, nuts and seeds in your bag for when you're out and about so you're not tempted to buy a sugar packed snack. There are conflicting messages out there about how often you should eat, and whilst some say you should eat every 3-4 hours, others say it's important to stick to 3 main meals. The important thing though, is to find what works best for you and fits in with your lifestyle.
I'll admit, this heading may be a little misleading as going organic doesn't mean you'll be having orgasms. I think it's safe to say the supermarkets would be all out of organic produce if that were the case! There is, as yet, little evidence to show that organic is any better for you so the jury's still out. But we do know that some supermarket produce may have been packed and processed using chemicals, preservatives and hormones that you really don't want to put into your body. So when possible, go organic.
These are some simple ways to fight fat with food. What foods do you incorporate into your daily diet to keep you feeling fit and fabulous?