Adding foods with thermogenic properties, such as chili peppers, curry powder, horseradish, mustard, garlic, onion, wasabi, ginger, black pepper and radishes, to dishes generates a higher rate of caloric burn, and their powerful flavors prompt people to eat far less than they normally would. tian and founder of Decision Nutrition, in Great Neck, New York. “For a tasty protein-packed snack, top apple slices with natural almond butter.” Accept treats. Leaving room for a treat, like a piece of fine chocolate, can leave us feeling satisfied rather than stuffed, says Katherine Harvey, a registered dietitian in Kansas City, Missouri. Indulging in a little sweet treat from time to time reinforces the perception that eating right can be simple and pleasurable, says Barnes. In cold months, she likes to bake apples sweetened with Stevia and cinnamon, or poach pears in fruit juice and spices. She might break open a pomegranate and slowly munch each ruby-colored seed, or stop at a coffee shop to sip a latte made with low-fat milk. Barnes’ evolved natural foods strategy has helped her maintain a desirable weight for many years now. “Sustainable weight loss involves sustainable eating,” she says, “finding healthy foods that we can enjoy for the rest of our lives.” Award-winning cookbook author Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com.
Bonus Diet Tips Be mindful. Hunger may be more mental or emotional, rather than physical, says nutritionist Katherine Harvey. “Becoming more aware of where in our bodies we’re feeling hungry—our heads, chests or stomachs—can help us discern if we’re eating out of boredom, emotional distress or true physical need.” Celebrate each meal. If we can focus on each bite and do nothing else—no reading, watching TV or working at our desk—we’ll eat less, says health writer Kathleen Barnes. “It helps our focus to bless our food, the people who grew it, where it came from and the good work it is doing in our bodies.” Drink lots of water. Staying hydrated is important. To keep track of her allotted two quarts of water a day, Barnes drinks it from a two-quart canning jar. natural awakenings
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