Archive for category Diet
1000 Calorie Diet Menu and Meal Plan
One good way to reduce weight is to lose calories. This is done by taking in fewer calories than what we usually consume. This will eventually lead to weight loss. But we should also make sure that we are giving our body the right amount of calories, else the body metabolism will sputter and may lead to unforeseen complications.
There are a lot of diet plans that offer you reduced amount of calorie intake. A 1000 calorie diet plan is one such very low calorie diet plan.Be cautioned that 1000 calories a day will be suitable for people who exercise minimally and this diet plan is only for a short time frame. This diet plan should not be continued for more than three days in a row. This is a very low level of calories diet plan so always consult your doctor before embarking on a 1000 calorie diet plan. This diet plan provides us with so few calories that it might be impossible to meet the nutritional demands of the body with this plan. This plan is generally recommended by doctors when obesity has become a threat to life itself or as a preparation for a surgery. Therefore only after you doctor approves of your plan you should follow this diet. Also make sure that you drink lots of water when following this diet plan and keep your body well-hydrated.
USDA Recommendations:
The USDA recommends the following proportions for a 1000 calorie diet so that it allows proper nutrition while also contributing to weight loss. One cup of fruits and vegetables, 3 ounces of grains, 2 ounces of meat and beans, 2 cups of milk, 3 teaspoons of oil and 165 discretionary calories of your choice as the ideal diet plan. Also drink as much water and zero calories beverages as you like to make sure that your body gets the necessary fluids. Read the rest of this entry »
Mediterranean Diet Foods
The remarkable health of the people from the Mediterranean region has always been a wonder to researchers. The people in the Mediterranean region are known to have a very active life style. Of course physical activities is essential for good health, but good health is based on food habits as well. In other words, the Mediterranean diet is a healthy diet rich in plant food; especially grains, cereals, vegetables, fruit, nuts, legumes and olives. All ensure good health with less chance to develop heart disease.
The Mediterranean diet includes all kinds of foods that are recommended on a normal, low to moderate basis. This method is explained on the traditional Mediterranean diet pyramid. The pyramid has classified various foods depending on their nutritional and lists whether a food is to be eaten daily, a few days a week or a few times a month.
The food consumed on a day-to-day basis contains cereals, vegetables, bread, beans, potatoes, leafy vegetables and other plant products. Interestingly, nuts rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals are also included in the daily diet. The diet does not encourage too much processing of food, as it can deprive the nutritious value of the food. For instance, over cooked vegetables are only good as roughage(it contains fibers), as it loses essential vitamins in the cooking process. The food is cooked, garnished or dressed in olive oil, a rich source of low saturated fat. It is consumed moderately and is known to play a vital role in preventing heart diseases. Read the rest of this entry »