Think of these ingredients as the Seven Wonders of the healthy food world! Add them to your shopping list, stat!
Chia Seeds
These marvelous antioxidant-dense Aztec seeds are rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids. They also have a slow-burn glycaemic index [GI], which makes them an ideal energy-giving replacement for carbohydrates. Soak the seeds in water for 5 to 15 minutes or overnight, or add them to a freshly squeezed juice or smoothie.
Cinnamon
Lowering body fat is key to weight loss and balancing blood sugar and cholesterol levels can make a difference. In fact, adding 1/4 tsp of cinnamon to your meals daily can decrease high blood sugar levels and bad [LDL] cholesterol by up to 30 percent in as little as 40 days.
Protein
This is a natural appetite suppressant. Even while you shed fat, this nutrient helps retain muscle, which raises your metabolic rate [the rate at which energy is turned into fuel for the body] and promotes fat loss. Choose lean meats and trim off all the skin and fat. Vegetarian sources include beans, peas, lentils, cottage cheese, tempeh, and tofu. Fish is another great source of protein – choose fresh over smoked or frozen and steam rather than fry it.
Resveratrol
Longevity experts promote low body fat and calorie restriction as the key to extending life expectancy, Research shows that resveratrol not only mimics the effects of calorie restrictions but also helps support energy and fights fatigue common to dietary change.
Green Tea
This is a natural source of caffeine that helps increase mental focus and is rich in toxins-neutralizing antioxidants. Research suggests that it also stimulates thermogenesis – burning off body fat,
Flaxseed Oil [or hemp]
This is the richest plant source for Omega-3 oil. It is sensitive to heat, so is not suitable for cooking. Serve it cold or at room temperature. In the fridge, flaxseed oil will keep fresh for up to six weeks. Frozen it will last up to a year.
Iodine
This nutrient nourishes the thyroid gland thereby speeding up the metabolic rate. Found in many multivitamins, the required dose is 150mcg daily. Seaweed and kelp are good food sources of iodine and taste great in salad and miso soup.
0 Comments