human health as wealth

AVOCADO

If you want to lose fat, don’t eat it, right? Wrong. With it’s high levels of healthy monounsaturated fats, the avocado is more ‘fat’ than fruit which makes it a perfect dietary staple for weight loss. Eating quarter or half an avocado can quell hunger pangs, help you feel more satisfied and even help spot-reduce belly fat, too.

Almost always in season, avocados make great substitutes for cheese and butter. Add to breads and wholegrain rye crackers before adding lean meats, tinned fish and cucumber slices for a quick and easy snack. They’re also perfect additions to salads or equally delicious eaten raw.

Oats

Oats are bursting with health-boosting nutrients, great for female health. They keep your heart healthy, are great for digestion, keep blood pressure levels in check and also contain vitamin B6, which helps prevent PMS and mood swings. Another component — folic acid — prevents birth defects in babies and is essential for women during and after pregnancy.

Eat Some Dark Chocolate

Another high-fat food that you may be pleased to read about is dark chocolate. If you choose a brand that is organic and has a high cocoa content (70-90%) then it will be a great source of antioxidants and healthy fats

Papaya

Papaya is a low carbohydrate fruit and one of the healthy diet foods for weight loss. Low carbohydrate fruits have high water content, which controls the body temperature and expels bad cholesterol from the body. It provides energy to the nervous and cardiovascular systems to function properly. A cup of papaya provides 55 calories and 3 grams of fiber. The fruit contains papain, a unique enzyme that promotes faster transit of food through the gut, aiding weight loss.

Coconut

Coconut contains medium chain triglycerides (MCFA) that increase the liver’s rate of metabolism by almost 30%. They also keep the stomach full for a longer time, preventing irregular hunger pangs. Coconut oil is very beneficial for the functioning of the thyroid gland. All forms of coconut like coconut flour, low fat coconut milk and shredded coconut contain MCFAs.

FRESH/FROZEN BERRIES

Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, Goji berries – the list goes on. With almost nil carbohydrates and calories, grab a handful as a quick snack, add them to low-fat yogurt, desserts, salads or blend them up in a smoothie. Out of season? Look for the frozen variety.

EGGS

According to research, there’s no better way to start the day than with eggs. Thanks to their high-quality protein, eggs help you stay full for longer compared to other refined breakfast options like bagels. They’re also a fast and inexpensive dinner option. Omelet, frittata’s or a vegetable sandwich topped with hard-boiled egg slices are all great options.

POPCORN

A great weight loss snack, but most supermarket bags are loaded with calories, preservatives, sodium and even trans fats. So make your own instead. Add 1/4 of popcorn kernels to a microwavable bag, along with a few teaspoons of olive oil and your favorite herbs & spices (chili/curry powder, thyme, rosemary & oregano all work well). Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes.

FRESH FISH

Salmon, tuna, sardines, herring and mackerel are your best choices when you’re yearning for a fatty meal like fish and chips – just leave out the chips. Because these are all types ‘fatty’ fish, it will scratch that itch while topping up your body with omega-3’s. Enjoy them once or twice a week with vegetables or salad for lunch or dinner. Use the tinned varieties for healthy sandwiches and wholemeal wraps.