In the countless weight loss diets, one can easily feel overwhelmed. While some promise quick
results, others emphasize small but lasting changes. Healthy eating does not mean you don’t eat
the food you like but making sensible choices to enjoy a wide range of foods. You should plan a
diet that is rich in nutrients and low fat. This means that your meals should mostly contain lots of
fruits, vegetables, whole grain and moderate amounts of proteins.
Some basic suggestions to help make healthy choices include:
Eating lots of fibre: it slows the rate at which sugar and starch in foods enter the blood stream.
It also helps manage cholesterol levels. Examples of foods rich in fibre include wholegrain
breads, cereals, vegetables, fruits, oatmeal, dried beans and peas.
Reducing carbohydrates: sugars and starches are broken down into glucose during digestion.
Because carbohydrates raise glucose level in the body, its important to check the amount of
bread, rice, cereal, fruit, juice, corn, peas and the sweets you consume. Focus more on healthier
carbohydrates like wholegrains, legumes and low-fat dairy products.
Choose your fats carefully: control the intake of fats for they are high in calories. Choose foods
with low fat saturation. Be careful of butter, most meats, milk, cream and tropical oils like palm
and coconut oil. Avoid processed foods like crisps, crakers and chips.
Select non-starch but leafy vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and carrots for they are high in
fibre and low in carbohydrates. For starchy vegetables like potatoes, peas and corn, eat small
portions. Though they are nutritious and full of vitamin A, they should be taken in moderation.