Picking the right foods is not about counting calories. It is not about the quantity of calories but rather the quality of the calories. Where are those calories coming from? You’d be surprised how many people, when given food options, are clueless about which will help increase their metabolism, keep them satisfied, promote fat loss, or just simply which is healthier. Foods that slow your metabolism and keep you from burning fat include sugary drinks, refined grains, processed foods (including processed meats), high fructose corn syrup, and junk food. A lot of foods marked as “healthy foods” will contain hidden ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup which promote weight gain. Carbs such as fructose and grains will affect your hormone insulin which is a strong fat regulator. You should base your diet on lean protein, non-starchy vegetables, high-fiber starches, and good fats.
Healthy fats from animal and vegetable sources are vital for your health, provide a concentrated source of energy, and will help keep you full. Some healthy fat examples are: coconuts, coconut oil, avocados, raw organic butter, raw nuts, grass-fed meats, and olive oil. Stay away from trans fats which can cause heart disease. Examples of these are margarine, vegetable oils, and soy oil. Another important healthy fat is Omega-3. It can be found in wild salmon, walnuts, and flax seed.
Protein outweighs both carbs and fats when it comes to satiety. High-quality proteins include wild salmon, organic free-range chickens and eggs, raw nuts and seeds, lean grass-fed beef, raw dairy products, and whey protein.
Lastly, be aware of balancing your nutrients. For example, a slice of multigrain bread might have slightly more calories and carbs than a slice of white bread, but the benefits of higher fiber outweigh the savings of calories and carbs. Our bodies are smart. The body processes the nutrients it needs and the rest are stored as fats.
For more nutritional advice, visit me at Nutriway in the Promenade Shops of Aventura. I am the licensed nutritionist/ dietitian and will be happy to answer any questions! Contact me via email me at mishakov@mynutriway.com or by phone at 305-438-7775.
See you soon!
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