My first Body Shaping event at HCHQ was held last week. It was a great evening that focused on how to effectively reach your weight loss and body shaping goals. Guests enjoyed one of my favourites teas, Genmaicha green tea (Uplifting Zen), on arrival, and got to sample a selection of the dishes showcased. The main points discussed were the three principles for any successful healthy eating or weight loss plan, which I call the “THE TRIANGLE FOR SUCCESS”. For more information on this, The Triangle For Success is detailed in my book, The 80/20 Diet.
Most weight loss success is attributed to what you eat and drink. Losing weight and being healthy takes dedication. Eating ther right foods, getting regular exercise and making the right lifestyle choices are the key ingredients for staying lean, fit and at a healthy weight. In addition to lowering the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and high blood pressure.
1. FOOD / DIET Most weight loss success is attributed to what you eat and drink. The ideal diet is one that includes fresh, nutrient-filled, wholefoods. Eat mostly plant based fresh vegetables and salads then accompany with quality protein and essential fats. Healthy fats help your body absorb fat-soluble nutrients into the body and are vital to our health on a cellular level. Include nuts such as almonds or walnuts, seeds such as chia, avocado, salmon or other omega-3 rich foods at daily meals.
MAKE IT YOURSELF Know what’s exactly going into your body is the only way to truly take control of your health and wellbeing.
2. EXERCISE / MOVEMENT Being physically active influences our metabolism, blood sugar, mood, digestion, sleep, and much more. The key to overcoming our sedentary lifestyles is integrating more incidental exercise throughout our day. As long as you’re moving 30 to 60 minutes a day, doing what you love, you are moving towards your weight loss and body shaping goals.
As long as you’re moving 30 to 60 minutes a day, doing what you love, you are moving towards your weight loss and wellbeing goals.
3. REST / STRESS MANAGEMENT Sleep deprivation affects literally every cell and organ system in the body. Not getting enough sleep is associated with everything from obesity to diabetes to autoimmune disease to Alzheimer’s. The bottom line is that it’s impossible to reach your ideal weight if you don’t get enough sleep. Chronic stress can keep cortisol levels in the blood elevated for longer, which in turn can affect metabolism, suppress thyroid function and increase abdominal fat.
A cup of relax + renew tea helps to promote sleep. So does a small protein drink or a warm mug of healthy hot chocolate.
On the night, guests were shown some of my favourite recipes and I went through the ultimate “day on a plate” menu which consisted of the following:
BREAKFAST: Blueberry Breakfast Bowl / Smoothie Protein is important in maintaining healthy skin , a strong immune system, enhanced sports performance, sports recovery as well as sustained weight loss. A smoothie that includes protein means you’ll feel fuller for longer, and you’re less likely to give in to your cravings because of its satiating effect.
LUNCH: Nourish Bowl When I need something sustaining for lunch, I love to make a Nourish Bowl, filled with nutrient-rich ingredients that will elevate my health to the next level. The Nourish Bowl includes nutrient dense veggies, healthy fats, and quality proteins for a delicious and satiating meal. The Nourish Bowl is what I call a huge salad bowl… the base can be spread with a creamy dressing such as my hummus, baba ghanoush, avocado dip or green tahini. This provides essential fats and proteins that will assist with nutrient absorption when you eat it.
DINNER: Cauliflower Rice This cauliflower fried rice is one of my favourite meals to make, and is featured in my bestselling book, Purely Delicious. It literally takes only 5 minutes to create. My secret is to use a generous amount of anti-inflammatory aromatics.
To finish the event, guests enjoyed more fabulous healthy food, such as Lemon Delicious Balls and Gluten Free Pumpkin Bread, Hummus with pomegranate molasses and heirloom carrots.