They say you practice what you preach - it is easy for you to advise a friend to cut back on fries if he or she is trying to lose weight, but it is only when you start dieting yourself that you realise the process entails copious amount of hard work, commitment and a dedicated plan. You need to be very cautious of what you add to your plate, but that does not mean you end up making the process even more harrowing and overwhelming than it already is.
Weight Loss: Why Count Calories?
In a low calorie diet, one is typically asked to limit the intake of high-calorie foods, but that does not necessarily mean that you start starving. Your body runs on calories, so the recommended daily amount must be met. The idea is to refrain from trans-fats, junk and refined foods as they contribute to 'empty calories'. In other words, these foods do not come with great nutritional gains and contribute to fat gain. You should replace these foods with foods that are rich in protein, fibre and good fats.
Low-cal diet is often misunderstood
Weight Loss: What About The Liquid Calories?
While you are keeping a track of your diet, you cannot not be careful about what you drink. Soda, carbonated beverages and sugary drinks are loaded with calories, hence better to avoid. You could hydrate yourself with homemade juices, smoothies or herbal teas instead. They are nutritious and delicious to taste as well.
Soda is often brimming with extra calories
Benefits Of Jeera And Saunf For Immunity And Weight Loss
A herbal concoction of fennel (saunf) and cumin (jeera) seeds is an excellent way to kickstart your day on a healthy, low-calorie note.
Fennel seeds may control inflammation - they are rich in antioxidants and are good for heart, skin and nails. They are good for digestion as they are rich in fibre. It works as an antacid and also curbs bloating.
Eating fennel seeds could help you get rid of bloating
Photo Credit: iStock
Cumin seeds, on the other hand, may look a bit like fennel seeds but the two are actually quite different in flavour. Cumin seeds have a hot earthy flavour as opposed to the sweet undertones saunf is associated with.
Jeera water drink is easy to prepare and equally effective.
Photo Credit: iStock
Cumin is also a very potent package of antioxidants, antioxidants fight free radical activity that takes a toll on our immunity. Cumin seeds are a natural remedy for indigestion. A good digestion is key for weight-loss. Apart from the anti-inflammatory properties, it is renowned for its antiviral and antibacterial properties too.
How to make saunf and jeera tea:
1. In a vessel add a cup of water.
2. Now, add half a teaspoon fennel, half inch ginger and half a teaspoon cumin seeds. Bring it to boil.
3. Strain and serve hot.
4. You can add half a teaspoon of honey for flavour. Make sure you mix honey later and do not boil it with tea.
Drink this tea early in the morning for improved metabolism. Do tell us how you liked it in the comments section below.
(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)