Healthy Diet

An important step to controlling weight gain is a healthy diet. Developing a healthy diet at a young age can drastically improve health and vitality and help control weight gain later in life.

A healthy diet should provide your body with all the essential nutrients it needs. A diet for weight loss should make you feel fuller for longer. A feeling of fullness can assist you in resisting the temptation to overeat or eat sugary foods.

A healthy diet should be:

• low in saturated fats and refined carbohydrates
• have moderate amounts of protein
• high in fresh fruit, vegetables and wholegrains

---

Refined carbohydrates

Refined carbohydrates like sugar, pasta and white rice should be kept at a minimum. Refined carbohydrates tend to cause a sharp insulin response. The effect of the insulin response is a "good" feeling after you eat, then in about 30 minutes you feel tired, then a few hours later, you become hungry again. Refined carbohydrates also contains less fiber which can contribute to more fiber related health problems.

Protein

Protein has a positive effect on metabolism and can stimulate weight loss in conjunction with less refined carbohydrates and saturated fats. Great sources of protein is eggs and fish. You can also increase your protein intake with protein powder.

Fiber

Fiber helps improve digestion and has a mild appetite suppressing effect due to it's "filling" effect. It's best to obtain fiber from your diet. You can also increase your fiber intake with fiber supplements.


The information provided is intended solely for general information and is NOT to replace advice from your physician or other medical professionals and should NOT be relied upon for any diagnosis, treatment or cure. Always check with your doctor before starting any new drug, alternative, natural or herbal treatments and supplements.