There are a range of different carbohydrates, ranging from individual glucose molecules and sugars, to larger carbohydrates chains such as starches. Our digestive systems break down carbohydrates to release individual sugar molecules which are absorbed into the bloodstream. Carbohydrates are essential to maintain blood glucose levels, providing fuel for our muscles and brain. A low blood glucose level (known as hypoglycaemia) can make us feel tired, dizzy and generally unwell.

Carbohydrate foods are an important fuel, but also provide an amazing range of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health, as well as fibre for a healthy digestive system.

Not all carbohydrates are digested and absorbed at the same rate, and the type of carbohydrate can have a specific influence on health and energy levels. Low gi foods tend to be better for us as they release sugar into the blood stream slowly and evenly, which will help maintain higher energy levels and assist weight loss as the body converts less sugar into glycogen and fat. 

Dieting can seem difficult, however thier are a few simple things you can do to make dieting and weight loss easier.

Use our guide to work out the weight you should be based on your height. This will give you a quick indication of your healthy weight range.

Like anyone trying to shed the kilos, you probably know that foods high in sugar and fat are bad news for your diet. If you’re a chocolate lover, this is nothing short of devastating, but cry no more: a flurry of research studies have shown that eating chocolate in moderate amounts offers some amazing health benefits, including losing weight.

These delicious, healthy pancakes make the perfect guilt-free treat. With cottage cheese and oatmeal instead of flour, they have an unusual and satisfying texture- and are packed full of flavour! This recipe makes about 6 pancakes, each with only 50 calories and plenty of protein to keep you feeling full.

Aside from being healthy, this is a great entertaining dish. Unlike many dishes that deteriorate from being prepped too early, this recipe benefits from it.

Aside from being healthy, this is a great entertaining dish. Unlike many dishes that deteriorate from being prepped too early, this recipe benefits from it. The beans need to be soaked for at least 24 hours and the herbs will permeate the chicken better if marinated longer rather than shorter. In addition doing all the work so far in advance will once again leave you more time to entertain . Bon apatite.

“It’s too cold… It’s too wet…It’s too dark” We have heard it all before. Countless excuses why we can’t exercise in winter. Think again, as there are also countless ways to exercise-INDOORS.

1.       Team up

Join an indoor team sport such as netball, volleyball, soccer, basketball and cricket. Being part of a team is great for your attendance as you don’t want to let the team down. It also has a plus of making new friends and socializing.

This delicious eggplant parmesan is sure to be a hit with the whole family! And with just 224 calories per serve and 14.5 grams of protein, it fits right in to your diet plan…

 

You don’t have to give up meat completely- but cutting down on your weekly intake can help your weight loss efforts. Many nutritionists suggest having at least one meat-free day a week. This helps you to consume less saturated fat and less cholesterol, and keep your calorie total low.