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Search Results for: grains

September 23, 2017 By Anushree Ashtekar 3 Comments

10 Lifestyle Changes for Fat Loss and Healthy Living

healthy-living

  • Choose and learn to like healthy food options: Many people who aim to lose fat and live a healthy life go on crash diets or have boiled meals thinking that their only way to achieve their goal is to eat bland food. It’s just a myth that “healthy” foods are not very appetizing. There are many recipes which are very healthy and also very delicious. The best way to start a healthy living is to do some research and make a list of some healthy recipes that are low in processed ingredients and are appetizing.
  • Always start your day with a nutritious breakfast: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. After a long gap of 6-7 hours of sleep, our body needs the fuel (calories) to get our metabolism going and give us the sustained energy throughout the day. Breakfast should be a combination of quality carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
  • Mid- meal snacking: If you have the habit of snacking between meals during the day, select healthy snacking options. Opt for a serving of fruit or a handful of nuts that have good fibre content, vitamins and minerals. Avoid having snacks made out of refined flour, refined sugar and deep fried snacks.
  • Eat at regular intervals: Missing meals and eating after long gaps is a big no-no! A log gap between two meals switches our body to “starvation mode”. While in starvation mode, the BMR of the body reduces drastically to save energy. This environment in the body makes it very difficult to lose fat. Having meals at regular intervals keeps the BMR on the higher side and helps a lot in giving effective fat loss. It also avoids one from binge eating.
  • Opt for whole foods: Whole foods include whole grains and products made out of whole grains, fruits and vegetables. These foods are rich in Fibre, do not spike blood sugar levels and fill the stomach. They give satiety for a long period of time without adding on unnecessary calories. Fibrous foods are heavy to digest, increase the BMR of the body and hence give effective fat loss. Enjoying an occasional treat sometimes is fine, but, make it a habit to eat more whole foods.
  • Load your plate with salads and soups: Water-rich vegetables like cucumbers, gourds, tomatoes etc. gives satiety and avoids consumption of too many calories. Soups are also very water-rich foods but, choose clear soups over creamy soups. Having water-rich foods does not mean that one needs to ignore the good old water!
  • Practice mindful eating: It is very important that we concentrate on the food we eat and enjoy it. Mind and body connection is very powerful. Never eat sitting in front of a TV, while working on gadgets, when angry, depressed or tensed. In such times we tend to eat more and add on unnecessary calories. Chew the food well; it improves the process of digestion. Portion control is very important; it prevents adding on unnecessary calories. Also, guilt-eating is bad! Giving self an occasional treat will cut too much temptation and avoid binge eating.
  • Avoid stocking tempting foods at home: Never stock at home tempting, unhealthy foods like biscuits, cookies, cream crackers, chips, ice-creams, milk chocolates and deep fried snacks because, if you don’t have these in the house, you won’t be tempted to eat them.
  • Avoid “white” or “refined” foods: Foods made out of refined flour and refined sugars are of “low benefit and high risk”! They tend to increase the blood sugar levels drastically causing fat gain and diabetes. They also rob the body of certain vitamins. Refined foods are very low in fibre content and cause digestive disorders like hyperacidity, constipation, haemorrhoids, anal fissures etc.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day: Water is the best fat burner. 70% of our body is made up of water. Water acts as a catalyst, a reactant and a solvent in almost all the biochemical reactions taking place in the body. This keeps the body functions going on and helps in keeping the BMR on the higher side thus, giving effective fat loss. People believe that water should be had only when thirsty but that is not true. Thirst is, actually, a late indicator of dehydration. It’s best to drink water before feeling thirsty. Our mind sometimes registers thirst as hunger. At such times, instead of eating something just drink a big glass of water. Water acts as a medium through which toxins produced in the body are flushed out. Water enhances the production of new blood cells and muscle cells. Drinking good amounts of water also prevents digestive tract ailments such as hyperacidity, constipation, haemorrhoids, etc.

September 3, 2017 By Vrushali Athavle 11 Comments

Know your Protein Powders!

Protein Powder

This blog is in continuation to my previous blog ‘Protein is not just about quantity, it’s also about quality’. If you missed it here is a link Protein is not just about quantity. It’s also about quality. I am never in favour of proteins powders but, if really required you can take them as supplements as an addition to the diet you eat. I emphasize on this because the focus of any diet should be food. Whole food is often preferable to powders because it can offer a whole spectrum of nutrients that powders cannot.

Protein powders are easy and convenient source of complete and high quality protein but these powders are devoid of other nutrients like fiber, vitamins and minerals which are got from our natural food items.

Calculate your protein requirement. See if you can meet them through your diet. Only if you are unable to give yourself the required quality and quantity of proteins then you should think to opt for protein supplements.

Choosing the protein powders: A tricky part

The tricky part is trying to pick a GOOD protein powder that will contribute to muscle gain and not break the bank.

Protein powders are basically divided into two categories:

  • Animal source protein which include milk protein derivatives like whey and casein, beef and egg white protein.
  • Vegetable source protein include soy, rice, pea, hemp and sprouted grain proteins

 

1. A) ANIMAL PROTEINS

 

Whey protein:

It is derived from milk. The protein portion of whole milk consists of 20% whey protein. It is most popular protein powder because of its taste, high quality and economically too it’s very convenient.

 

Whey protein comes in two varieties, whey concentrate and whey isolate.

 

Whey Concentrate

  • This is a good source of protein powder that is absorbed at a moderate pace.
  • It can be used both pre and post workout but typically it is good to include it as snack in between meals.
  • It has low lactose level that is well tolerated by most lactose-sensitive people. It has trivial amounts of fat and carbs relative to your overall nutrient intake.

 

Whey Isolate

  • It is one of the quickest absorbing proteins
  • Whey isolate is virtually fat-free for those wishing to eliminate as much fat from their diet as possible. It is typically lactose free for those few individuals who are very sensitive to the low-lactose levels found in whey concentrate
  • Isolates are great pre and post workout as they are absorbed quickly and can supply the muscle the nutrients needed to help recover and grow.

 

Casein or Milk Protein

  • Casein constitutes 80 percent of milk protein.
  • It takes longer digestion period as compared to whey concentrate and isolate.
  • Its takes about 5 to 7 hours to fully breakdown and this is one of the reasons for not consuming it post workout.
  • Before bed if you take in casein protein your body keeps absorbing and utilizing the nutrients even while you sleep. People also use casein during the day to help stay full and to keep a constant supply of protein in your body to supply the muscles with proper nutrition for hours after drinking the shake.

 

Egg protein:

  • Like milk proteins, egg white is also naturally very low in fat and carbs.
  • Egg white protein is cholesterol-free and an excellent choice for those who wish to avoid dairy products.

 

  1. B) PLANT PROTEINS:

 

They are derived from a variety of sources, including peas, hemp, sprouts, and grains. They’re rich in vitamins and minerals, and often provide antioxidants, amino acids, fiber and more. They are typically suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets. They’re also well tolerated by lactose-sensitive individuals.

Soy Protein

  • It is the only plant-based protein considered to be a high-quality protein, containing all the essential amino acids in the ratios needed to support growth and development
  •  It is loaded with glutamine and arginine which helps to dilate blood vessels and allows nutrition to get into the muscles quicker.
  • This type of protein can be used both pre and post workout or anytime throughout the day if needed to get in a meal/snack containing protein.

Conclusion

There are many different options of protein for you to choose from. Natural source of protein is the best but, based on your height, ideal weight and intensity of workout you may need to add a protein supplement into your diet. It is safe to take protein supplements if they are monitored properly as per your requirement. Getting all your protein from powders is not the best idea, as it could potentially restrict your intake of vitamins and minerals from other foods.

 

While there are no particular risks to consuming protein powder every day, you should not exceed your daily protein needs.  If you can meet your protein needs with whole foods, it’s the best thing. But, when you’re crunched for time, protein supplements can be your biggest ally.

August 28, 2017 By ASHWINI PRAKASH CHAUDHARI 16 Comments

Fat Burning Foods

fat burning foods

In my previous blog, you read about 5 easy ways to cut down on fat. When we are talking about burning that extra fat from our body, we need to take care of our food too. Let’s understand what are these fat burning foods?

I have chosen some fat burning foods that we use in our daily routine but, unaware of its impact on our health.

When we talk about fat burning food, the first thing that comes to mind is Green Tea.

#GreenTea is packed with antioxidants but, did you also know that it can help you shed the fat? It’s the Catechins-(a type of an antioxidant which found in tea). These are a part of green tea that gets your body to switch over to burning more calories, as well as fat. Several studies suggest green tea may promote weight loss by stimulating the body to burn abdominal fat. It temporarily speeds metabolism after sipping it. To get the most benefit of it, you may need to drink green tea 2-3 cups per day.

#Bulletproof Coffee-I am sure you will love this one. Your favorite beverage may actually help rev the metabolism and help you lose weight. Try to have a cuppa coffee first thing in the morning but, try this new and healthier version of the coffee-‘the bulletproof coffee’. For this coffee cut out the sugar and cream and add 1tsp of virgin coconut oil or our very own desi-ghee or unsalted butter and get your daily dose of MCT’-(Medium chain triglycerides, it’s a type of fatty acids. It helps in food absorption, decreases body fat and increases lean muscle mass), the good fats which helps you in reducing cholesterol, controlling hunger pangs and helps in fat burning.

#Egg whites : One of the best source of protein. It is also known to be rich in branched-chain amino acids, which keep your metabolism boosted for several hours.

#Chicken, Lean meat and Fish- Excellent source of protein, they help us pump up our muscles. More the muscles in body, higher is the metabolism and higher is fat burning. Protein has a high thermogenic effect: You burn about 30% of the calories the food contains during digestion. They are also rich in Iron. Iron deficiencies often make our metabolism sluggish refraining from fat burning. Grab on these protein-iron rich combo foods at least twice a week. Skinless chicken breast is a great choice. Lean meats are full of protein and less fats. Then there are fishes that are rich in omega-3 fats, proteins and iron- look out for salmon, herring and other fatty fishes.

#Fiber– High fiber foods tend to be less “energy dense,” which means they have fewer calories for the same volume of food. Most of the fiber rich foods have the thermogenic affect which increases energy expenditure by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system to cause enhanced metabolic activity. When metabolic rate enhances, fats breakdown rapidly. Example, Fruits, green leafy veggies like spinach, Whole wheat, nuts, beans, oats, etc

As I have mentioned in my earlier blogs, that I have been on a healthier side. So, to cut down the extra fat from the body,I have increased the fiber intake in my meals. Most of us begin their day with oats and even I did the same. I started having oats in my breakfast. Oats are a fiber-rich whole-grain. Your body burns twice as many calories breaking down whole foods (especially those rich in fiber such as oatmeal and brown rice) than processed foods. To make it healthier, I started adding nuts in it. They’re high in protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. The combination of oats and nuts were so impactful that it helps me blow up the fats.

Nuts are an excellent way to curb hunger between meals. They’re also rich in calories, so limit your portions. So, you can have handful nuts in a whole day. If you don’t like eating nuts for snacks, chop them and sprinkle over main dishes or side items. You’ll still get the good fats, they bring, and they help to flavor up the meal.

Similarly, the other raw vegetables make for an outstanding snack. They satisfy the desire to crunch, they’re full of water to help you feel full, and they’re low in calories. When you’re in the mood for chips and dip, replace the chips with raw veggies. Another way to fill up before a meal is by eating salad. Make your salad interesting by adding a variety of fruits and vegetables or pomegranate, corn. Be careful about dressing, which can add a lot of fat building foods.

Water: For all the above listed foods, water is the most wanted nutrient. Without sufficient water intake, your body goes into dehydration and we very well know “Dehydrated body almost kills your metabolism”. 3 liters of water every day is ideal. Also to digest of the above listed foods and get the maximum benefit of them, water is required. While reading this article too, grasp a glass of cold water, which forces your body to use more calories to warm it up.

There are many other foods which you can add to your daily routine which can help you to burn fats like berries, especially blueberries, chilli peppers, grapefruit, olive oil, Enova oils (soy or canola), whole grains, beans and legumes, low fat dairy products, yogurt, flax seeds, etc.

So let’s start adding these foods in our daily routine and start en-kindling the fat.

August 7, 2017 By Jayshree Dhabalia 1 Comment

Let’s understand Cravings

Three colorful green, pink and yellow tart cakes wrapped in measuring tape on white background, unhealthy lifestyle concept, studio

Food craving (defined as an intense desire to eat a specific food) is of interest because it is extremely common and because it influences obesity or nutritional status. It has also been suggested that food craving may be the evolutionary source for cravings of all kinds including cravings for drugs and alcohol.  “Surveys estimate that almost 100% of young women and nearly 70% of young men had food cravings during the past year,” says Mercia Levin Pelchat, of Monell Chemical Senses Center in her published article ‘Food Cravings in Young and Elderly Adults’ in the journal Appetite*

As humans, we’re biologically wired to crave for Food. The more bad food we eat, the more our body will learn to accept and want them. We become addicted to highly palatable, energy dense food. Well, yes many of the food we eat today (ready made) are extremely addictive, and we are hardwired to crave them. Anything that gives us pleasure and offers relief, our body will want more and crave.

What food am I referring to?

Processed food. They are prepared with a combination of fat, sugar, and salt and provide very fewer nutrients.

Studies have found, highly processed food have the same effect on the brain as some drugs. It helps release feel good hormone which in turn helps to relieve stress temporarily.

What about those people who have food craving even without indulging in processed foods often? The answer for this could be due to missing micro nutrients from your diet, which causes you to crave for certain foods.

amazed young woman eating popcorn

What’s the Solution to Carvings?

Let’s take a look at why we should be adding more veggies, fruits, and other unprocessed food to our diet.

I have covered here few very commonly reported cravings and deficiency associated with the same:

Food Craving Bread
Nutrient Deficiency Nitrogen
Nutritious food Green Leafy Vegetables, Nuts, Seeds, Legumes, Grains
Food Craving White Pastas, Cake, Pastries
Nutrient Deficiency Chromium
Nutritious food Onion, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Cinnamon, Grapes
Food Craving Crisps/Potato Chips, Salty foods
Nutrient Deficiency Chloride
Nutritious food Celery, Olives, Tomatoes, Kelp, Himalayan Sea Salt
Food Craving Chocolate
Nutrient Deficiency Magnesium
Nutritious food Raw Cacao, Whole Grains, Beans, Nuts, Seeds, Fruit, Green Veggies
Food Craving Fizzy/Aerated Drinks
Nutrient Deficiency Calcium
Nutritious food Broccoli, Kale, Sesame seed, legumes, mustard, turnip, greens
Food Craving Coffee / Black tea
Nutrient Deficiency Sulphur
Nutritious food Cruciferous Veggies, Cranberries, horseradish, garlic, onion
Food Craving Ice, Chilled water
Nutrient Deficiency Iron
Nutritious food Beans, Legumes, Dates, Black raisin, Jaggery, Spinach
Food Craving Sweets
Nutrient Deficiency Phosphorous
Nutritious food Citrus Fruits, Green Leafy Veggies, Banana, Tomatoes, Black Olives.

As you can see on the table, a simple mindful inclusion of certain food does not only save you from lot more cravings and its ill effect but can also provide you with lots of nutrients and minerals.

So what will you choose?

*Appetite is an international research journal specializing in cultural, social, psychological, sensory and physiological influences on the selection and intake of foods and drinks. It covers normal and disordered eating and drinking and welcomes studies of both human and non-human animal behaviour towards food

 

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