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SWEET POTATO – Best Workout Meal

sweet-potato

You must have heard of protein shakes and eggs as good work out meals. But, have you heard of Sweet Potatoes as a workout meal?

Well, the Sweet potato is a large, starchy, sweet tasting tuberous root vegetable which is usually consumed by people only during fast.  But, apart from having it as a fasting food, the other best time to consume sweet potato is either before or after your regular ‘moderate to intense’ workouts.

Referring to my previous blog on “Pre and Post Workout meals” (https://goqii.com/blog/pre-and-post-workout-meals-is-it-important/) where I mentioned the importance of having carbohydrates before your workout to keep you energetic throughout the exercise regime and post workout to replenish the depleted stores and to help the recovery process faster, SWEET POTATO is one of the best choices. One should have approximately 100 gms of boiled sweet potatoes.

How does it work?

Sweet potatoes have natural sugar and complex carbohydrates which are slowly released into the bloodstream, helping to ensure a balanced and regular source of energy without sudden blood sugar spikes. When you consume them before a workout, it gives you a slow and steady form of energy and hence keep’s you energetic throughout the workout. Post workout sweet Potatoes help to replenish the glycogen stores which are lost during the workout.

Also, there are lots of water-soluble nutrients and electrolytes which are lost during your workouts. To replenish them, SWEET POTATO is the best choice once again. It is a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. Let us have a look at all of them:

Magnesium:  It is called a relaxation and anti-stress mineral. This clearly says that grab on the sweet potato to relieve stress (mental or physical).

Potassium: Helps in relaxing muscle contractions, reducing swellings and controlling kidney activities.

Vitamin B 6: Helps maintain healthy brain and normal nerve function. It also helps in forming red blood cell.

Vitamin C (powerful healer): This vitamin not only helps to ward off cold and flu viruses but also plays a crucial role in bone and tooth formation, digestion and blood cell formation. Helps wound healing, produces collagen which helps maintain skin’s elasticity thus keeping you young and beautiful.

Vitamin A (a powerful antioxidant): Keep’s your eyesight perfect and keeps your immune system boosted to fight against any diseases.

Vitamin D: It is crucial to maintaining your overall health as it is critical for the immune system. It plays an important role in keeping our energy levels boosted, controls mood swings and helps to build healthy bones, heart, nerves, skin and teeth and also it supports the thyroid gland to function effectively.

Iron: Necessary for red and white blood cell production

Apart from using it as the best workout food, sweet potato serves as a great choice for people who are trying to lose weight. Isn’t that great? Let’s look into it.

  • Sweet potato is high on fibre. Fibre is bulky and hence will occupy a lot of space in your stomach making you feel full for a long period of time, thus preventing one from overeating. i.e. You won’t feel hungry for a long time.
  • Sweet potato has high water content so just like fibre; water takes up a lot of room in your stomach making you feel full and will prevent overeating and snacking between meals. This will help both in your weight loss goals and will also help you prevent the weight from coming back on.
  • Lastly, it is low on calories, so people keeping a watch on calories can just go for it.

To conclude, include sweet potatoes in your routine and not only during the fast as it is one of the best workout meals and also helps with weight loss.  If sweet potato is eaten along with its skin, which is an excellent source of insoluble fibre, it may prevent constipation and diverticulitis. It also contains soluble fibre which may help control cholesterol.

We hope this article helps you! Find more articles on fitness and nutrition here. You can also get all this information and more, directly from a GOQii Coach by subscribing to Personalised Health Coaching here.

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Healthy Eating Tips for Women at 40

Healthy-eating-tips-for-women-at-40

“Lordy, lordy, look who’s forty!” The big 40—it’s a milestone for sure, signalling a time of transition from young adulthood to middle-age.

This is an important decade for preventing lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and many cancers later in life. So, if you’ve been making healthy lifestyle choices, keep it up in your 40s, and if you haven’t, now’s the time to start!

Healthy habits like eating right, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and not smoking can help reduce your risk for a number of chronic medical conditions.

Age 40 is a milestone when the risk of many health conditions increases. This makes the 40th birthday a perfect time for taking stock of your health. Today, Forty is considered the new twenty. So if you want to feel young and healthy now is a good time to take stock of the situation. Though there might be other things out there more important, do take a deep breath and feel good and healthy.

Adopting a healthy eating plan is the best preventive measure against disease. It involves both avoiding certain foods and incorporating others in varying proportions, making the transition gradual yet effective.

Good nutrition starts with the basics: a well-rounded diet consisting of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and lean sources of protein. These kinds of foods provide women with plenty of energy, the means for lifelong weight control, and the key ingredients for looking and feeling great at any age. Our diet has a major effect on our food cravings, stress levels and energy throughout the day.

Applying some simple rules will assist our bodies in maintaining hormonal balance and promoting long-term well-being.

Focus on whole, plant-based foods. Fill most of your plate with fruits and leafy green vegetables. Also include a variety of whole grains, beans, and other legumes to give a filling fiber.

Bone up on calcium. Women are at a greater risk than men of developing osteoporosis, so it’s important to get plenty of calcium to support your bone health. While dairy products are high in calcium, their animal fat and protein can accelerate bone loss. So also consider plant-based sources of calcium like beans, broccoli, kale, brussels sprouts, and collard greens.

Make sure you get enough iron. Many women don’t get enough iron in their diet. On top of that, women lose a lot of this important mineral during menstruation. Boost your intake by eating iron-rich foods such as lean red meat, dark poultry, lentils, spinach, almonds, and iron-fortified cereals.

Cut back on alcohol and caffeine. Women who consume more than two alcoholic drinks a day are at a higher risk of osteoporosis. Caffeine consumption interferes with hormone levels and also increases the loss of calcium. Try to limit alcohol consumption to one glass once in a while and caffeine to one cup a day.

Eat the right type of protein. Protein is an essential part of any healthy diet. Protein at this point in your life will help maximise your current metabolic rate and also prevent the loss of lean muscle mass. Eating too much animal protein can cause calcium loss and lead to a decrease in bone density and osteoporosis. Instead of red meat and processed meat, such as hot dogs, bacon, and salami, opt for fish, skinless chicken and turkey, low-fat dairy, and plant-based protein sources, such as beans, nuts, seeds, peas, tofu.

Some of the healthy tips to be focused on:

Avoid

– Ready made meals and microwaving your food in plastics and cling film.

– Genetically modified foods

– Sugar as much as possible

– Food additives such as MSG (monosodium glutamate or better known as Ajinomoto), Fructose, Glucose-Fructose-Syrup, Corn Syrup, Aspartame, Colourings, and E numbers.

– Cut down on sodium

– Eating any food that is burnt

– Carbonated beverages, especially ‘diet’ varieties

– Margarine and other ‘fake’ butter

All foods labelled ‘diet’ or ‘low calorie’ or ‘fat-free

Highly processed foods

Refined grains (white).

Options that can be included in the meal platter:

Eat plenty of raw organic fruit and vegetables

Eat complex carbohydrates

Eat Essential Fats – oily fish, nuts, & seeds (avoid nuts in cases of acne and allergies)

Include healthy fats such as coconut oil, olive oil and butter

Increase your fiber intake

Drink sufficient clean water every day

Eat good, clean sources of proteins.

Eat vegetarian at least once each day

Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables before eating.

Feed your body high-quality fuel, monitor its intake and routinely push your engine’s limits to keep it running smoothly. Remember, you are the captain of your plane. Just reach out and take the controls.

We hope this article equips you with valuable insights for maintaining a healthy and balanced life. If you found this information helpful, we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Find more articles on Women’s Health here. For further information or guidance, reach out to our certified experts by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

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Importance of good food for the human body to be healthy

preliminary step to weight loss

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy body has become more crucial than ever. Good food is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle and plays a vital role in promoting overall well-being. The food we consume provides essential nutrients, energy, and nourishment to our bodies. In this article, we will explore the significance of good food in maintaining a healthy body and the positive impact it has on our physical and mental well-being.

  1. Essential Nutrients for Optimal Functioning

Good food provides our bodies with the necessary nutrients required for optimal functioning. These nutrients include carbohydrates, fats, protein, minerals, vitamins, and water. Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy, while proteins are essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. Fats play a significant role in hormone production, brain function, and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Vitamins and minerals are necessary for numerous bodily functions, including immune system support, energy production, bone health, and protection against oxidative stress. Additionally, water is essential for maintaining proper hydration and facilitating various physiological processes.

  1. Disease Prevention and Management

Consuming a balanced and nutritious diet significantly reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provides the body with essential antioxidants, phytochemicals, and fiber that help combat inflammation, boost the immune system, and protect against cellular damage.

  1. Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall health. Good food choices, combined with regular physical activity, help manage body weight effectively. A balanced diet with adequate portions ensures that our bodies receive the necessary nutrients without excess calories. High-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, provide a feeling of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating. In contrast, processed foods high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and empty calories contribute to weight gain and various associated health problems.

  1. Mental Well-being

The impact of good food extends beyond physical health; it also influences mental well-being. Several studies have shown a strong connection between diet and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and minerals like zinc and magnesium, have been linked to an increased risk of mental health disorders.

Conversely, a nutrient-rich diet, including whole foods, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and healthy fats, has been associated with improved mood, cognitive function, and overall mental well-being. Healthy eating habits can also enhance sleep quality, energy levels, and brain performance, thereby promoting a positive mindset and reducing stress.

  1. Longevity and Quality of Life

Good food choices and a healthy lifestyle contribute to a longer, healthier life. Studies have consistently shown that individuals who adhere to a nutrient-dense diet have a lower risk of premature death and age-related chronic diseases. The combined effects of proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and other healthy lifestyle factors can improve vitality, increase longevity, and enhance the overall quality of life.

The importance of good food for a healthy body cannot be overstated. A well-balanced and nutritious diet provides the essential nutrients, energy, and protection necessary for optimal bodily functions. It not only prevents diseases and helps manage weight but also supports mental well-being, promotes longevity, and enhances overall quality of life. By making conscious choices to incorporate whole, unprocessed foods into our diets, we empower ourselves to lead healthier, happier lives. Remember, food is not just fuel; it is the foundation of our well-being.

We trust you’ve found this article informative and beneficial, please let us know in the comments below. You can discover more articles on enhancing your lifestyle here. To get personalized guidance and expert advice consider subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

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Healthy Substitutes for Butter

butterHave you ever wondered where butter comes from or how it is made? In short, it is a dairy product made from milk, also known as milk fat. It is composed of about 80 percent fat, which is the part that has been separated from the carbohydrates and protein of the milk.

Butter is a popular spread and baking ingredient. It is widely used as a spread for bread, crackers, and other food items. It also functions as a leavening agent in baked goods. Due to its high concentration of fat, butter has a rich flavor and creamy texture. It works especially well for high-heat cooking like sautéing and pan-frying to help prevent sticking while adding flavor.

Despite its various uses, there are a few reasons why you might want to substitute butter.

Why You May Need to Substitute Butter

  • Milk Allergy: While butter is very low in protein, it still contains a small amount of the milk protein casein, which can be allergenic.
  • Lactose Intolerance: People with lactose intolerance tend to tolerate the small amounts of lactose in butter without adverse reaction. However, some are more sensitive to lactose than others and may have to avoid butter for this reason.
  • Health Reasons: Some individuals avoid butter because it’s high in saturated fat. High intake of saturated fat has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
  • Veganism: Some people have made a dietary choice to avoid all animal products including dairy, so they avoid butter.

For whatever reason you may choose to avoid butter, here are a few alternatives that you might want to try.   

Butter Substitutes for Pan Cooking

  • Ghee (Clarified Butter): Having a high smoke point, it is a great alternative commonly used. Some other benefits are an aromatic & nutty taste. It has no casein or lactose, so it is safe for people with milk allergy. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties and contributes to a healthy digestive system.
  • Olive Oil: is better than any other refined oils. Being monounsaturated fat & high in antioxidants, it is good for the skin, heart health & for lowering cholesterol.
  • Coconut Oil: In south India, coconut oil is a part of many recipes. Its delicious to cook with & rich in healthy fats that actually boost fat burning in your body. It also provides quick, sustainable energy to your brain and helps you focus.

Substitutes for Baking Purposes  

Butter functions as a leavening agent in baked goods and provides texture and flavor. It can be replaced by ghee (clarified butter), coconut oil & olive oil in baked goods. However, the ratio of these while substituting butter have to be kept in mind.

There are some more foods that work best as butter replacements in cakes, muffins, cookies, brownies, and quick breads. However replacing butter with foods is often a matter of trial and error.

  • Applesauce: significantly reduces the calorie and fat content of baked goods. Yet, it does add sweetness, so you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in recipes.
  • Avocados: These add nutrients and healthy fats to your recipes. Use dark ingredients like chocolate to cover up the green tint that may result from using avocados.
  • Mashed Bananas: Using mashed bananas provides extra nutrients and decreases the calorie and fat content. Add bananas slowly to the batter until you achieve the desired consistency.
  • Hung Curd: If dairy is not an issue, using Greek yogurt/hung curd adds protein to your recipes and replaces sweetness with a tangy flavor. Full-fat curd is best for keeping baked goods creamy and tender.
  • Nut Butters: Nut butters infuse baked goods with a nutty taste and tend to make them more dense and heavy. Still, keep in mind that they’re high in fat and calories.
  • Pumpkin Purée: This is a nutrient-rich butter replacement. Use 3/4 the amount of pumpkin purée when substituting for butter.

Substitutes in Spread

Butter is widely used as a spread for bread, crackers, and other food items. The following foods have consistencies that are ideal for spreads, in addition to being tasty and nutritious.

  • Nut Butter: Peanut and almond butter can easily be spread onto toast or crackers. They are delicious as well!
  • Cheese or Hung Curd: Try cottage cheese, cream cheese, or hung curd if you can tolerate dairy. You can also add some herbs & finely chopped veggies to enhance flavor.
  • Avocado: Lightly spread a tablespoon or two of ripe avocado over toast & sprinkle some salt, pepper & dry herbs mix.
  • Hummus: also works great for spreading and dipping.

We hope this article helped you in your quest to substitute butter. Do let us know your thoughts in the comments below! For more on nutrition, check out Healthy Reads or ask an expert by subscribing for GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

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