Weight loss, water, green smoothies and Quinoa

You've read it and heard it so many times, weight loss is achieved when you burn off more calories than you consume each day.

The great challenge remains, to make healthy food choices that both satisfy your hunger and actually tastes good. Doing the research and the comparison of healthy options can be quite daunting. It's certainly easier to eat whatever you want without having to plan a meal or survey the break down of calories assigned to the fat, protein and carbs(carbohydrate) on your plate.


Here are three offerings to add to your asenal in the weightloss battle.

1. Opting out of carbs dense rice and using protein rich Quinoa. I've found that I've had to cook it stove top on a low heat for about about 22 minutes ( slightly longer than the suggested time on the packaging). If you have kidney failure or have been placed on a restricted protein diet, discuss with your dietition how to portion Quinoa into your meal plan. If you're a Diabetic, Quinoa will be a welcomed addition to your meal plan, discuss portion sizes with your nutritionist.

2. Having a daily green smoothie to ensure you're getting those leafy greens and fruit that you wish you ate more of . If you're taking a blood thinner called Coumadin(Warfarin) your doctor will discuss restricting leafy greens in your meals and you may not be allowed to have green smoothies at all.

3.Water is the fluid of life .You need it to improve how your body processes the food you eat. Travel with your supply, you're more likely to drink more if it's readily available to quench your thirst. Forgoing the sugary beverages in favor of water is a step in the right direction to avoid excess calories.


By Charity Francis-Munson FNP