GOQii

Blog

  • HOME
  • HEALTHY LIVING
  • FITNESS
  • HEALTHY RECIPES
  • USER STORIES
  • KARMA
  • BUY GOQii

June 26, 2025 By Luke Coutinho Leave a Comment

Everything You Need To Know About Fiber, Fat Loss and Your Health

fat lossEvery nutritionist will tell you to improve your fibre intake, particularly because of the role it plays in supporting fat loss, reducing the risk of heart disease, and certain cancers. It plays a key role in digestive health and creating a sense of fullness which essentially means that enough fibre can help you manage your weight effectively!

Women should aim for around 25 grams of fibre per day, while men should aim for at least 35 to 40 grams. Yet, the average person consumes just 15 grams a day. The best way to increase your fibre intake is by eating fibre-rich whole foods, not heavily processed options with “added fibre” claims. Simply increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables and wholegrains can naturally boost your daily fibre intake.

How Fibre Supports Fat Loss and Weight Management

Fibre is one of the most natural ways to reduce high cholesterol levels in the body. If you have diabetes, consuming the right amount of fibre can help regulate blood sugar levels, allowing you to enjoy a variety of foods that might otherwise be restricted.

A lack of fibre is a common reason why people experience constipation and we all know constipation isn’t just uncomfortable; it can lead to toxic build-up in the body, sluggish digestion, fat gain, and has even been linked to a higher risk of colon and other cancers.

Why We’re Consuming Less Fibre

One of the main reasons is food processing. Modern methods often strip fibre from food entirely, which is why many packaged foods are considered unhealthy. A useful tip: if a food label shows less than 2 grams of fibre per serving, it’s best avoided. Low-fibre foods can cause blood sugar spikes, leading to fat gain over time.

Another reason is that many people don’t consume enough fibrous carbohydrates. Ideally, your main source of carbohydrates should be fibrous – these typically contain fewer overall carbs, but their high fibre content helps balance insulin response, making them ideal for fat loss.

Best Sources of Fibrous Carbohydrates

Here’s a list of some of the best naturally fibrous foods to include in your daily diet, all easily available in supermarkets:

  • Broccoli
  • Lettuce
  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • Mushrooms
  • Green beans
  • Onions
  • Asparagus
  • Cucumber
  • Spinach
  • Bell Peppers
  • Courgette
  • Popcorn (plain, air-popped)
  • Apples
  • Oats
  • Brown rice
  • Wholemeal pasta
  • Lentils
  • Beans and Pulses (e.g., kidney beans, chickpeas)

Beans are a fantastic source of dietary fibre and protein, keeping you full for longer. The same applies to fruits, nuts, and seeds – all of which should be a regular part of your meals.

Psyllium husk (commonly known as Isabgol in Asian stores) is another fantastic fibre source. It helps detox the body and removes excess cholesterol and fat. As always, moderation is key.

Not All Grains Are Equal

While grains contain fibre, the amount can vary significantly. For example:

Food Item Fibre Content (approx.)
White bread (1 slice) 0.5 grams
Wholemeal bread (1 slice) 2 grams
Kidney beans (1 cup) 17 grams
Mixed berries (1 cup) 8 grams

As you can see, focusing on whole, natural food sources will boost your fibre intake far more than relying on refined or packaged foods.

Fibre is essential for good health and should be part of every weight-loss strategy. It aids digestion, balances blood sugar, reduces cholesterol, and keeps you feeling satisfied for longer – all of which support healthy fat loss.

It’s time to make a conscious effort to add more fibre to your meals – your body will thank you for it.

We hope this article helps you. Do let us know your thoughts in the comments below. For more on fiber and fat loss, check out Healthy Reads or reach out to a GOQii Coach for the right guidance and motivation by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.

June 12, 2025 By Roopa Tandur 5 Comments

11 Fat Burning Foods You Should Try For Weight Loss!

fat burning foodsYou’ve been exercising, eating in measured quantities, counting your calorie intake, controlling cravings, and drinking plenty of water. Yet, even after 5–6 weeks of doing everything right, the scale refuses to budge. You start to wonder—could it be your food choices? Quite possibly. But don’t worry—try these fat-burning foods which may boost your metabolism and support your weight loss journey.

Fat Burning Foods For Weight Loss

  1. Eggs:
    Often called a nutritional powerhouse, eggs top the list as a complete food. High in protein and healthy fats, they keep you fuller for longer. People who include eggs in their breakfast tend to experience fewer cravings throughout the day, along with improved waist circumference and body fat reduction.
  2. Green Tea:
    A potent antioxidant, green tea triggers fat cells to release stored fat for energy. It may also reduce body fat and lower cholesterol. Its flavonoids and phytochemicals are known to boost metabolism and aid recovery after intense workouts.
  3. Nuts & Seeds:
    Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and pumpkin seeds are rich in micronutrients like magnesium, selenium, and zinc. These healthy fats curb hunger and may help reduce belly fat. Flaxseeds are particularly high in fibre and mucilage, creating a sense of satiety when soaked in water.
  4. Fatty Fish:
    Fish like salmon, herring, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation. Their high-quality protein supports lean muscle mass, increases metabolism, and enhances fat burning—even at rest.
  5. Avocados:
    Packed with monounsaturated fats and minerals like potassium and magnesium, avocados reduce bloating, aid nutrient absorption, and support digestion. Their healthy fats and fibre also help you feel full for longer.
     
  6. Leafy Greens:
    Kale, spinach, and collard greens are loaded with magnesium and iron, which reduce stress and aid oxygen flow. Stress is often linked with weight gain, so leafy greens can indirectly support weight loss while being easy to incorporate into your meals.
  7. Probiotics like Yoghurt:
    Probiotics improve gut health, reduce bloating, enhance immunity, and promote better nutrient absorption. A balanced gut may lead to a faster metabolism. Natural yoghurt (unsweetened) is a widely available probiotic option in the UK.
     
  8. Spices (Pepper & Cinnamon):
    Pepper contains capsaicin, which burns belly fat and boosts energy conversion. Cinnamon helps cells absorb glucose more efficiently. Both may help reduce water retention and salt cravings while supporting fat metabolism.
  9. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV):
    Taking ACV before meals may slow carb digestion and reduce blood sugar spikes—one of the causes of fat storage. It also supports digestion and helps you feel full sooner.
  10. Legumes:
    Beans, peas, chickpeas, and lentils offer protein, fibre, and complex carbs. They support muscle formation and slow the release of sugars into the bloodstream, promoting sustained energy and fat loss.
  11. Healthy Oils (Coconut & Olive Oil):
    Coconut oil contains MCTs that suppress hunger and aid fat burning, while olive oil improves insulin sensitivity and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Both can support metabolism and satiety when used in moderation.

Add these foods to your weight loss plan mindfully. Always consult your GP, dietitian, or nutritionist—especially if you have any allergies or pre-existing health conditions.

Want more tips on sustainable weight loss? Explore our articles here or subscribe to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.

June 11, 2025 By Luke Coutinho 2 Comments

Portion Control: The Right Method To Lose Weight

portion controlThe principles of weight gain and loss remain consistent, regardless of emerging theories on molecular science, blood group diets, fad exercise programmes, or restrictive eating plans. Fundamentally, your body utilises only the amount of food it requires for its functions. Any surplus is stored, potentially leading to fat accumulation.

If you’re extremely hungry and your only option is a slice of pizza, it’s acceptable to eat it. Your body will convert it into the energy it needs. However, consuming multiple slices of pizza, accompanied by a portion of pasta and a dessert, may exceed your body’s immediate energy requirements. This brings us to the importance of controlling our food portions. How much food does our body truly need?

Are We Eating More Than Our Bodies Require? 

Awareness is key. Consuming two to three large portions of bread, rice, or any staple carbohydrate at lunch or dinner might simply be out of habit. This pattern may have been established during your younger, more active years with a faster metabolism.

However, as time progresses, our bodies and their metabolic processes evolve. What if your body now requires just one portion of carbohydrates instead of three? What if a small scoop of ice cream suffices instead of a large serving? What if six small meals a day aren’t necessary? Perhaps you can still enjoy your favourite dessert by sharing it, avoiding feelings of deprivation.

Many individuals consume more than their bodies need, especially given the vast array of culinary delights available. Visually appealing dishes and desserts can stimulate our cravings. And that’s perfectly natural—we all appreciate good food.

The challenge arises when we overindulge, leading our bodies to store the excess energy. An expanding waistline is your body’s way of signalling that you’re consuming more than necessary or not engaging in sufficient physical activity to utilise the surplus energy.

While it may take months or even years for abdominal fat to accumulate, we often seek rapid solutions. This desire for instant results can lead to extreme measures that might harm our bodies. Intense workouts can strain our knees and backs, and drastic diets might result in nutrient deficiencies.

Portion control is a challenging yet effective method to lose weight and maintain it. It’s a sustainable lifestyle change that can combat the obesity epidemic. We all face challenges with food, but portion control offers a balanced approach to enjoying our favourite dishes while being kind to our bodies.

Why Do We Need Portion Control? 

The UK market offers various portion control plates designed to guide individuals in serving appropriate food quantities without feeling deprived. These tools can educate both adults and children about suitable portion sizes, fostering a culture of balanced eating.

For instance, the Healthy Portion Plate by Diabetes UK provides a visual guide to balanced eating and is available for purchase online.

By using such plates, families can instil healthy eating habits, ensuring meals are balanced with the right proportions of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and vegetables.

Personally, I experimented with a portion control plate for a month. Initially, the servings seemed small, but I soon realised I had been overeating. Starting with a one-cup portion and eventually reducing to half a cup at dinner, I adapted to the change. Now, I consume less and don’t feel hungry afterward.

This approach surpasses the efficacy of weight loss pills, which often prove ineffective. It teaches you to eat appropriately, promoting a sustainable lifestyle shift. Once accustomed to portion control, you’ll naturally apply the same principles when dining out.

Embracing this simple yet effective tool can transform your eating habits and assist in weight management. Moreover, it ensures a balanced intake of essential nutrients.

We hope this article on portion control proves beneficial! To delve deeper into portion control, explore our Healthy Reads or consult a GOQii Coach by subscribing to Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.

June 6, 2025 By Luke Coutinho 6 Comments

Digestion: The Secret to Losing Weight

digestionHow often are you worried about that sneaky fat creeping up around your mid-section, a bloated belly after meals or low energy sabotaging your workout? What do all of these have in common? They reflect the direct relationship between sluggish digestion, slow metabolism, and weight gain. Overeating during the holidays and less physical activity means this process can really snowball in the winter.

The Good News!

By increasing digestive efficiency through diet, lifestyle and targeted supplements, we can effectively shed excess fat, boost metabolism and support nearly every other aspect of health in the process.

Good digestion goes beyond the idea that “You are what you eat”.

Digestion is at the very centre of our core health. It lays the foundation for health, happiness, and wellbeing. We now have greater insight into the many roles digestion plays in immunity, hormone balance and even mental and emotional health.

Traditional healing systems, especially those from Asia, have long recognised these relationships. In fact, many Eastern medical systems treat nearly every condition by first addressing the digestive system. Often, when we optimise it, everything else falls into place – especially the bathroom scale.

Herbs & Supplements For Digestion 

The relationship between herbs and supplements is clear – many nutrients and herbs that support digestion also boost metabolism. They do this by promoting mitochondrial function while improving the breakdown and absorption of nutrients.

Some digestive-supporting herbs and ingredients also increase enzyme activity, improve circulation, and help soothe inflammation in the digestive tract and beyond.

Black Pepper & Other Spices

Pungent culinary herbs and spices have long been recognised as digestive aids. Their strong aromas and spicy flavours stimulate the production of digestive enzymes for better food breakdown. They also bring warmth and circulation to the system, helping to reduce stagnation.

Their antimicrobial properties help maintain a healthy digestive environment. Researchers now confirm that these long-cherished spices also support healthy weight. For example, black pepper, known for aiding digestion, has been found to block the formation of fat cells at a genetic level – helping to manage weight. It’s often paired with curcumin (from turmeric) to further support metabolism and fat burning.

Probiotics

Another key factor in digestive health is probiotics. These friendly bacteria have evolved with us and offer countless benefits — especially for digestion. New research continues to uncover their broader role in health.

Around the world, fermented probiotic foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi and miso have been consumed for their health benefits. In the UK, kefir, live yoghurt (unsweetened), and kombucha are increasingly popular options.

Probiotics help break down food into usable nutrients, manage inflammation, support immunity, and produce digestive enzymes. A specific probiotic strain — Lactobacillus gasseri — has even been shown to reduce visceral fat by up to 9% over three months.

Cinnamon, Cardamom, Turmeric (Curcumin) & Ginger

These spices have long been used in traditional medicine to support digestion, metabolism, and reduce inflammation. In Asian systems, ginger is commonly used for stomach discomfort and is generally safe in small amounts (1–3 grams daily).

These herbs help warm the digestive system, ease occasional discomfort, and enhance nutrient absorption.

Stress, Exercise & Eating Habits

Because digestion and metabolism are connected to other body systems, a holistic approach is key for healthy weight management. Stress can severely disrupt both digestion and metabolism.

Mind-body practices like yoga, Tai Chi, or regular meditation can reduce inflammation, boost energy, and improve digestive efficiency. In fact, any consistent physical activity contributes to better digestion.

Our mothers were right — don’t skip breakfast. Doing so can disrupt metabolism and trigger fat storage.

Chew Slowly

Chewing food thoroughly and eating at a relaxed pace supports digestion and weight in two ways. First, it helps break food down more effectively, improving nutrient absorption. Second, it allows time for satiety signals to register — preventing overeating.

The Bottom Line

Whether you eat to live or live to eat, better digestion brings ripple effects across all aspects of health – not just weight. Improved energy, reduced bloating, less water retention, more regular elimination, and a general sense of wellbeing are among the first signs that your digestion is on track.

If this article helped you, let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Find more articles on weight loss here or get these tips directly from a GOQii Coach by subscribing to Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • …
  • 70
  • Next Page »

Search

Recent Posts

  • Silencing the Food Noise: Tackling Cravings While on GLP-1 Therapy
  • (no title)
  • Reframing Obesity as a Disease: From Blame to Biology
  • All You Need To Know About Visceral Fat
  • Everything You Need To Know About Fiber, Fat Loss and Your Health

Stay Updated

Archives

  • July 2025 (3)
  • June 2025 (18)
  • May 2025 (13)
  • April 2025 (21)
  • March 2025 (26)
  • February 2025 (23)
  • January 2025 (26)
  • December 2024 (26)
  • November 2024 (26)
  • October 2024 (27)
  • September 2024 (25)
  • August 2024 (31)
  • July 2024 (22)
  • June 2024 (27)
  • May 2024 (31)
  • April 2024 (27)
  • March 2024 (29)
  • February 2024 (26)
  • January 2024 (27)
  • December 2023 (18)
  • November 2023 (19)
  • October 2023 (24)
  • September 2023 (25)
  • August 2023 (23)
  • July 2023 (24)
  • June 2023 (25)
  • May 2023 (27)
  • April 2023 (25)
  • March 2023 (25)
  • February 2023 (20)
  • January 2023 (16)
  • December 2022 (12)
  • November 2022 (16)
  • October 2022 (15)
  • September 2022 (13)
  • August 2022 (11)
  • July 2022 (19)
  • June 2022 (11)
  • May 2022 (10)
  • April 2022 (6)
  • March 2022 (6)
  • February 2022 (13)
  • January 2022 (13)
  • December 2021 (7)
  • November 2021 (3)
  • October 2021 (6)
  • September 2021 (3)
  • August 2021 (8)
  • July 2021 (7)
  • June 2021 (15)
  • May 2021 (16)
  • April 2021 (10)
  • March 2021 (7)
  • February 2021 (4)
  • January 2021 (4)
  • December 2020 (3)
  • November 2020 (4)
  • October 2020 (10)
  • September 2020 (3)
  • August 2020 (3)
  • July 2020 (2)
  • June 2020 (4)
  • May 2020 (10)
  • April 2020 (12)
  • March 2020 (10)
  • February 2020 (4)
  • January 2020 (4)
  • December 2019 (3)
  • November 2019 (7)
  • October 2019 (5)
  • September 2019 (4)
  • August 2019 (9)
  • July 2019 (9)
  • June 2019 (11)
  • May 2019 (4)
  • April 2019 (9)
  • March 2019 (8)
  • February 2019 (9)
  • January 2019 (8)
  • December 2018 (9)
  • November 2018 (3)
  • October 2018 (3)
  • September 2018 (5)
  • August 2018 (10)
  • July 2018 (6)
  • June 2018 (13)
  • May 2018 (8)
  • April 2018 (18)
  • March 2018 (9)
  • February 2018 (8)
  • January 2018 (15)
  • December 2017 (12)
  • November 2017 (19)
  • October 2017 (13)
  • September 2017 (15)
  • August 2017 (4)
  • July 2017 (8)
  • June 2017 (7)
  • May 2017 (6)
  • April 2017 (8)
  • March 2017 (6)
  • February 2017 (7)
  • January 2017 (10)
  • December 2016 (10)
  • November 2016 (7)
  • October 2016 (7)
  • September 2016 (7)
  • August 2016 (11)
  • July 2016 (9)
  • June 2016 (9)
  • May 2016 (12)
  • April 2016 (17)
  • March 2016 (17)
  • February 2016 (8)
  • January 2016 (6)
  • December 2015 (2)
  • November 2015 (9)
  • October 2015 (7)
  • September 2015 (9)
  • August 2015 (11)
  • July 2015 (9)
  • June 2015 (12)
  • May 2015 (9)
  • April 2015 (13)
  • March 2015 (8)
  • February 2015 (5)
  • January 2015 (12)
  • December 2014 (14)
  • November 2014 (11)
  • October 2014 (6)
  • September 2014 (13)
  • August 2014 (12)
  • July 2014 (6)
  • June 2014 (2)
  • May 2014 (7)
  • April 2014 (5)

(no title)

Please Wait While Loading... … [Read More...]

Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

From Terminal Illness To Complete Wellness! Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

As we observe World Cancer Day under the powerful theme ‘United by Unique’ (2025-2027)**, we are reminded that every individual’s journey with cancer is distinct, yet united by shared resilience, hope, and the collective fight against this disease. This theme places people at the centre of care and their stories at the heart of the […]

Devesh Srivastava

Devesh Srivastava Lowers His HbA1c from 6.7 to 5.8 With GOQii

Have you ever suffered from a cold or fever and thought to yourself that you can manage this? In fact, there’s a good chance that with some medication and rest, the symptoms of a cold or fever have subsided. But, when you deal with issues such as Diabetes and Hypertension, trying to manage the issue […]

Dhiren Matani - Healthy lifestyle

Transforming Health and Life: Dhiren Matani’s Inspirational Journey to Wellness

In the face of persistent health challenges, Dhiren Matani, (43), an entrepreneur from Mumbai, embarked on a journey of resilience and transformation. Battling weight issues and a heart condition for some years, he refused to succumb to the daunting odds. Through sheer determination, he took control of his health at the right time by adopting […]

  • HOME
  • HEALTHY LIVING
  • FITNESS
  • HEALTHY RECIPES
  • USER STORIES
  • KARMA
  • BUY GOQii

Copyright ©2016 GOQii