When it comes to losing weight, many people turn to restrictive diets that limit their food choices and leave them feeling unsatisfied. But what if we told you that its possible to eat more and still lose weight? It’s true! With a few simple tweaks to your diet and mindset, you can enjoy delicious, satisfying meals while shedding unwanted pounds.
When it comes to eating healthy, many people assume that they have to sacrifice flavor and enjoyment in order to achieve their goals. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Eating nutritious foods doesn’t have to mean bland or boring meals. In fact, with a little creativity and knowledge, you can create dishes that are both delicious and healthy.
The key to eating more and weighing less is to focus on nutrient-dense foods that are low in calories but high in fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients. These include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. By filling up on these foods, you’ll feel fuller for longer and be less likely to overeat.
Here are some tips for staying healthy without sacrificing the flavor or starving yourself:
- Experiment with spices and herbs: One of the best ways to add flavor to your meals is to use spices and herbs. These can transform bland foods into exciting and flavorful dishes. Try using garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, paprika, or any other spices that you enjoy.
2. Focus on whole foods: Whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, are not only packed with nutrients, but they also have a natural flavor that can be enhanced with simple seasonings. Avoid processed foods, which are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
3. Get creative with healthy fats: Healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, can add richness and flavor to your meals. Try using these ingredients in dressings, sauces, and marinades.
4. Don’t be afraid of carbs: Carbohydrates are an important source of energy and can be a part of a healthy diet. Choose whole-grain options such as quinoa, brown rice, and whole-wheat pasta. These provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals while also adding a nutty and satisfying flavor to your dishes.
5. Balance your meals: Eating a variety of foods and balancing your macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fat) is key to staying healthy and satisfied. Make sure to include a source of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in each meal.
6. Indulge in moderation: It’s okay to indulge in your favorite foods once in a while, as long as it’s in moderation. Don’t deprive yourself of the foods you love, just be mindful of portion sizes and frequency. Remember even healthy foods can lead to weight gain if you eat too much of them. Use smaller plates, measure your portions, and take your time when eating to give your brain a chance to register when you’re full.
7. Stay hydrated and get enough sleep. Dehydration can lead to overeating and poor food choices, while lack of sleep can disrupt your hormones and make it harder to lose weight.
So next time you’re tempted to start a restrictive diet, remember that you can eat more and still achieve your weight loss goals.
About The Author
Dr. Coco is a highly-educated and well-qualified primary care physician who graduated from the University of the Philippines Baguio with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center. She completed her three-year residency training in Family Medicine at Brokenshire Medical Center. She passed her diplomate exams in Family Medicine, given by the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians in 2018.
Dr. Coco is dedicated to providing comprehensive and holistic care for her patients. She is a primary care physician who believes in delivering continuing comprehensive health care for all. To her, patients are not just a number as she takes time to analyse how she can improve their overall health every chance they can get.
