Despite what certain fad diets would have you believe, we all need a balance of carbohydrates, protein, fat, fibre, vitamins, and minerals to sustain a healthy, slim body. Try not to think of certain foods as “off limits” but rather as rewards on cheat days. Healthy eating is about more than the food on your plate. Fruits and vegetables are the foundation of a healthy diet—they are low in calories and nutrient dense, which means they are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre. Greens: Greens are packed with calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, zinc, vitamins A, C, E and K, and they help strengthen the blood and respiratory systems. Be adventurous with your greens and branch out beyond bright and dark green lettuce—kale, mustard greens, broccoli, Chinese cabbage are just a few of the options. Sweet vegetables: Naturally sweet vegetables add healthy sweetness to your meals and reduce your cravings for other sweets. Some examples of sweet vegetables are corn, carrots, beets, sweet potatoes or yams, winter squash, and onions. Fruit: A wide variety of fruit is also vital to a healthy diet. Fruit provides fibre, vitamins and antioxidants. Berries are cancer-fighting, apples provide fibre, oranges and mangos offer vitamin C, and so on. Supplements also play an important role in overall health, by providing you with nutrients not taken in with the diet, and also by providing extra nutrients that will help you maintain a healthy, slim, toned and fit body. Water: Think of water and exercise as food groups in your diet. Water helps flush our systems of waste products and toxins. Yet many people go through life dehydrated—causing tiredness, low energy and headaches. It’s common to mistake thirst for hunger, so staying well hydrated will also help you make healthier food choices.
Posted on: Wed, 10 Jul 2013 17:17:50 +0000
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