Many of us have eaten too much during the Christmas holidays and in January we are looking to lose the extra kilos that we had on our belly and hips. While gyms are closed and playing sports can be problematic, healthy eating takes on special meaning.
If you’re embarking on a new diet or healthy eating plan, there are some foods you can add to your weight loss program and even look younger, reveals dietitian Lola Biggs.
1. Turmeric
Turmeric is a great spice for everything, Biggs says. It is an antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory and collagen enhancer, it helps protect us from premature aging, support skin healing and cell renewal and improve good circulation in the skin that allows nutrients to be delivered to our cells.
“There are many ways to incorporate it into your daily diet. Try turmeric tea, add it to tofu or scrambled eggs, sprinkle it over roasted vegetables,” advises the dietitian.
2. Broccoli
We all know that a diet rich in vegetables is good for us, and one, in particular, can help maintain the diet as well as have glowing, radiant skin, says Biggs.
“Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals important for skin health, such as vitamins A, C, and zinc, along with lutein that helps protect skin from oxidative damage, which can cause skin to dry out and wrinkles”, highlights the expert.
Broccoli is also a great food if you are trying to lose weight, as it is a good carbohydrate and high in fiber. Helps prevent constipation and keeps blood sugar levels low.
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3. Avocado
A great way to add healthy fats to your food is to use avocado.
“Avocados are packed with antioxidants that help fight aging, but did you know they are also great for maintaining brain health and increasing mental focus? They are a fantastic source of vitamin E, they can protect against free radicals, they have great anti-inflammatory benefits and help prevent the loss of moisture from the skin,” reveals Lola.
Avocados are also high in fiber that aids metabolism, which in turn can help you lose weight.
4. Berries
Berries are a great source of vitamin C and can be added to puddings, sweets, and sauces. According to Lola, berries with a darker tone and a sour taste like cherries, blueberries or currants are packed with antioxidants that have particular rejuvenating properties.
Berries are low in calories and recent studies have found that they can also help lower cholesterol.
They reduce inflammation and blood pressure levels, which is helpful for people trying to lose weight.
5. Fish
It is full of healthy fats. According to Biggs, salmon, trout, mackerel and sardines are high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that are very effective in helping skin look youthful and hair full of shine.
“They play a vital role in the structure of the skin and help maintain healthy skin barrier function and prevent moisture loss,” concludes the dietician.