Of the 7 billion people or so in the world, more than 1 billion are overweight. Of these, almost half are classified as obese. Obesity is now officially regarded as an epidemic. If you carry more weight than what is healthy for you, it's a good idea to shed some of those pounds. However, you probably already know that this is easier said than done, especially if you're craving those carbs. With a few simple low carb ideas, it's possible to get healthy again and to eat well at the same time.
Carbohydrates are not intrinsically the bad guys when it comes to weight gain. Your body actually needs carbs to help keep you going. The problem however is that many people eat the wrong type of carbs. Refined and highly processed carbs such as pasta, white flour and sugar mess with your insulin levels and you feel hungry much more quickly, so you eat more. They can also increase the risk of diabetes. Vegetables, beans and brown rice are much healthier options but even they should be eaten in moderation. Proteins and fats are better at helping you feel full.
A protein-rich breakfast is one of the best ways to start your day. Instead of cereal, pancakes of toast, fill up on eggs. They're quick and easy to prepare and so versatile that you'll never have to eat them the same way twice. For flavor and fiber, add tomatoes or other vegetables. Mexican ranchers have traditionally found strength for the day ahead with huevos rancheros, for instance. Use tofu instead if you don't eat eggs.
For lunch or dinner, be creative with your meat and vegetables. A grilled chicken breast and steamed veggies can only be exciting for so many meals. Make fragrant stir-fries by adding garlic, ginger and chili oil, for instance. If you don't eat meat, there are many things you can do with tofu, beans, garbanzos and lentils as your source of protein.
For snacks, you don't have to stick to raw veggies and bean dip or cottage cheese. Nuts are great brain food but can be bland, so add some spices such as curry. If you're dreaming of potato chips, get the salt and crunch you're looking for by popping some pepperoni slices in the microwave until they're crispy. Parmesan crisps are great substitutes too.
If you have a sweet tooth but need to avoid carbs, you probably know all about munching on blueberries until you feel blue yourself. Luckily you don't have to deprive yourself of chocolate. Just use dark chocolate instead because it's lower in carbs. Sugar-free jellies are great too and if you crave cake, reduce its carb content by using almond or garbanzo flour.
While it's good to stay away from refined carbs, you should also remember that balance is essential. Get enough fiber, for instance in the form of salads. Also regulate your cholesterol levels with good fats like those found in avocados. Limit your sodium intake too.
There are many websites where you can get fantastic low carb ideas. You may also try recipe books from the library or bookstore. Don't forget that your own imagination is a great source of ideas too, so experiment without fear.
Carbohydrates are not intrinsically the bad guys when it comes to weight gain. Your body actually needs carbs to help keep you going. The problem however is that many people eat the wrong type of carbs. Refined and highly processed carbs such as pasta, white flour and sugar mess with your insulin levels and you feel hungry much more quickly, so you eat more. They can also increase the risk of diabetes. Vegetables, beans and brown rice are much healthier options but even they should be eaten in moderation. Proteins and fats are better at helping you feel full.
A protein-rich breakfast is one of the best ways to start your day. Instead of cereal, pancakes of toast, fill up on eggs. They're quick and easy to prepare and so versatile that you'll never have to eat them the same way twice. For flavor and fiber, add tomatoes or other vegetables. Mexican ranchers have traditionally found strength for the day ahead with huevos rancheros, for instance. Use tofu instead if you don't eat eggs.
For lunch or dinner, be creative with your meat and vegetables. A grilled chicken breast and steamed veggies can only be exciting for so many meals. Make fragrant stir-fries by adding garlic, ginger and chili oil, for instance. If you don't eat meat, there are many things you can do with tofu, beans, garbanzos and lentils as your source of protein.
For snacks, you don't have to stick to raw veggies and bean dip or cottage cheese. Nuts are great brain food but can be bland, so add some spices such as curry. If you're dreaming of potato chips, get the salt and crunch you're looking for by popping some pepperoni slices in the microwave until they're crispy. Parmesan crisps are great substitutes too.
If you have a sweet tooth but need to avoid carbs, you probably know all about munching on blueberries until you feel blue yourself. Luckily you don't have to deprive yourself of chocolate. Just use dark chocolate instead because it's lower in carbs. Sugar-free jellies are great too and if you crave cake, reduce its carb content by using almond or garbanzo flour.
While it's good to stay away from refined carbs, you should also remember that balance is essential. Get enough fiber, for instance in the form of salads. Also regulate your cholesterol levels with good fats like those found in avocados. Limit your sodium intake too.
There are many websites where you can get fantastic low carb ideas. You may also try recipe books from the library or bookstore. Don't forget that your own imagination is a great source of ideas too, so experiment without fear.
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