Of the 7 billion people or so in the world, more than 1 billion are overweight. Of these, almost half are classified as obese. Obesity is now officially regarded as an epidemic. If you carry more weight than what is healthy for you, it's a good idea to shed some of those pounds. However, you probably already know that this is easier said than done, especially if you're craving those carbs. With a few simple low carb ideas, it's possible to get healthy again and to eat well at the same time.
Experts agree that it's not really the amount of carbs you eat that make you put on weight but the type of carbs. The baddies are those refined carbs you get in sugar and white flour. They make your blood sugar levels rise and fall too quickly and soon after a meal you're starving again. The way that they create havoc with your insulin levels also increases your risk of diseases such as diabetes. To regulate your blood sugar levels and help curb those cravings, you need proteins and some fats.
A protein-rich breakfast is one of the best ways to start your day. Instead of cereal, pancakes of toast, fill up on eggs. They're quick and easy to prepare and so versatile that you'll never have to eat them the same way twice. For flavor and fiber, add tomatoes or other vegetables. Mexican ranchers have traditionally found strength for the day ahead with huevos rancheros, for instance. Use tofu instead if you don't eat eggs.
There are thousands of recipes for main meals that don't contain many carbs. Add flavor with lemon juice, chili oil, ginger or garlic and you'll never again think that veggies are boring. Vegetarians and vegans can add protein in the form of tofu, garbanzos, beans or even peanuts.
Many dieters find that the biggest challenge is the times in between meals. After all, raw vegetable sticks with cottage cheese of hummus just aren't as satisfying as a bag of potato chips. If you're craving the salt and the crunch, make parmesan crisps or microwave some thin slices of pepperoni. Use some spices to give nuts more flavor too.
If you have a sweet tooth but need to avoid carbs, you probably know all about munching on blueberries until you feel blue yourself. Luckily you don't have to deprive yourself of chocolate. Just use dark chocolate instead because it's lower in carbs. Sugar-free jellies are great too and if you crave cake, reduce its carb content by using almond or garbanzo flour.
While it's good to stay away from refined carbs, you should also remember that balance is essential. Get enough fiber, for instance in the form of salads. Also regulate your cholesterol levels with good fats like those found in avocados. Limit your sodium intake too.
A great way to get low carb ideas is to experiment with the ingredients you have in your kitchen. Let your imagination run wild and you'll soon forget that you're actually eating diet food. You may also find inspiration online or in recipe books.
Experts agree that it's not really the amount of carbs you eat that make you put on weight but the type of carbs. The baddies are those refined carbs you get in sugar and white flour. They make your blood sugar levels rise and fall too quickly and soon after a meal you're starving again. The way that they create havoc with your insulin levels also increases your risk of diseases such as diabetes. To regulate your blood sugar levels and help curb those cravings, you need proteins and some fats.
A protein-rich breakfast is one of the best ways to start your day. Instead of cereal, pancakes of toast, fill up on eggs. They're quick and easy to prepare and so versatile that you'll never have to eat them the same way twice. For flavor and fiber, add tomatoes or other vegetables. Mexican ranchers have traditionally found strength for the day ahead with huevos rancheros, for instance. Use tofu instead if you don't eat eggs.
There are thousands of recipes for main meals that don't contain many carbs. Add flavor with lemon juice, chili oil, ginger or garlic and you'll never again think that veggies are boring. Vegetarians and vegans can add protein in the form of tofu, garbanzos, beans or even peanuts.
Many dieters find that the biggest challenge is the times in between meals. After all, raw vegetable sticks with cottage cheese of hummus just aren't as satisfying as a bag of potato chips. If you're craving the salt and the crunch, make parmesan crisps or microwave some thin slices of pepperoni. Use some spices to give nuts more flavor too.
If you have a sweet tooth but need to avoid carbs, you probably know all about munching on blueberries until you feel blue yourself. Luckily you don't have to deprive yourself of chocolate. Just use dark chocolate instead because it's lower in carbs. Sugar-free jellies are great too and if you crave cake, reduce its carb content by using almond or garbanzo flour.
While it's good to stay away from refined carbs, you should also remember that balance is essential. Get enough fiber, for instance in the form of salads. Also regulate your cholesterol levels with good fats like those found in avocados. Limit your sodium intake too.
A great way to get low carb ideas is to experiment with the ingredients you have in your kitchen. Let your imagination run wild and you'll soon forget that you're actually eating diet food. You may also find inspiration online or in recipe books.
