1.
Water. Most people do not drink enough water
even though we all know how essential it is for the functioning of every cell
in our body. Dehydration slows down metabolism. It also causes the body to hold
on to any water available resulting in water retention and bloating. It always
amazes me how so many people get by in the life without drinking nearly enough
water and then wonder why they are so tired and have so many health problems. I
was talking to a gentleman in clinic who is in his 70’s and for the majority of
his life would be lucky to drink just 1 glass of water every second day. Now he
is wondering why his skin is so wrinkled and he has such high blood pressure.
Aim for 2 litres of water a day to help your body slim down and function
efficiently.
2.
Chilly is well known for speeding up metabolism
and causing you to break out into a sweat too! Chilly peppers contain a
chemical called capsaicin which is responsible for this boost in metabolism.
Try and incorporate 1 tablespoon of chopped chilly into your food daily to
really notice the effect.
3.
Cinnamon not so much boosts your metabolism but
helps to regulate blood sugar levels. As many people complain to me that they
have such difficulty losing weight as they cannot stop eating sweets
(particularly at certain times of the month for females). Cinnamon helps to
reduce these sugar cravings enabling you to stick to a healthier diet.
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of powdered cinnamon into your daily routine. I like to
add it to smoothies but it can be sprinkled on fruit or even added to tea.
4.
Fibre is essential for maintaining a healthy
bowl. This reduces the effects of bloating and a well-functioning digestive
system is necessary for weight loss. Fibre bulks up in your stomach making you
feel full so you won’t eat as much. One of my favourite snacks is chia pudding
as it fills you up without the calories and keeps the tummy flat too.
5. Protein. Iron deficiency actually slows down metabolism so making sure you are eating adequate iron containing protein will help you lose weight. Protein is also essential for balancing blood sugar levels, reducing sweet cravings and keeping you feeling fuller for longer. I always tell me clients to incorporate protein whether it is meat, fish, eggs or legumes in their lunch and as an afternoon snack and you won’t have the 4pm munchies.
5. Protein. Iron deficiency actually slows down metabolism so making sure you are eating adequate iron containing protein will help you lose weight. Protein is also essential for balancing blood sugar levels, reducing sweet cravings and keeping you feeling fuller for longer. I always tell me clients to incorporate protein whether it is meat, fish, eggs or legumes in their lunch and as an afternoon snack and you won’t have the 4pm munchies.
