We all remember the Atkins diet, the high-protein, low-carb diet that was popular a few years ago.

While there was a lot of controversy surround this cholesterol bomb, which cited meals such as eggs and bacon for breakfast, reports have shown that we can lose weight healthily by minimising carbohydrate intake and increasing the amount of quality, lean protein consumed.

The theory is that carbohydrates, particularly the "bad” ones such as white potatoes, pasta and bread, cause a spike in blood sugar. High blood sugar levels result in raised insulin levels, which can lead to weight gain due to the associated surge in appetite.

iHealth Meals, a catering and meal delivery service that offers healthy eating plans tailored to your personal goals and daily nutritional needs, has launched a range of low-carb meal options that combine lean protein with the correct percentage of daily carbohydrate to ensure optimum weight loss.

The Low-Carb ‘Rules’:

• Consume protein: Have a good quality, lean protein at every meal, such as fish, eggs and chicken;
• Restrict carbohydrate intake: For increased weight loss, restrict your carbohydrate intake up to a maximum of 30g daily;
• Brown over white: When consuming carbohydrates, select low-GI versions i.e. wholewheat bread and pasta, brown rice and sweet potatoes. Low-carb fruits include berries, melon and peaches;
• Breakfast like a king and dinner like a pauper: Eat dinner early and make it your lightest meal of the day.

 

For more info, visit www.ihealthmeals.co.za