Share

7 easy diet tricks

1. Limit unhealthy fats and cholesterol
Of the possible changes, limiting how much saturated and trans fats you eat is the most important step.

Check the food labels of some cookies, crackers and chips. Many of these snacks — even those labeled "reduced fat" — may be made with oils containing trans fats. One clue that a food has some trans fat in it is the phrase "partially hydrogenated" in the ingredients list.

When you do use fats, choose monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil or canola oil. Polyunsaturated fats, found in nuts and seeds, are also good choices for a heart-healthy diet. But moderation is essential. All types of fat are high in calories.

2. Choose low-fat protein sources
Be careful to choose low fat options, such as skimmed or low fat milk in place of full cream milk and meat should have all visible fat trimmed off..

Fish is another good alternative to high-fat meats. Certain types of fish are heart-healthy because they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can lower blood fats.  The highest amounts of omega-3 fatty acids are in cold-water fish, such as salmon, mackerel and herring. Other sources are flaxseed, walnuts, soybeans and canola oil.

Legumes — beans, peas and lentils —are also good sources of protein and contain less fat and no cholesterol, making them good substitutes for meat.

3. Eat more vegetables and fruits
Vegetables and fruits are good sources of vitamins and minerals; they are low in calories and rich in dietary fibre. Vegetables and fruits also contain substances found in plants that may help prevent cardiovascular disease.

4. Select whole grains
Whole grains are good sources of fibre and other nutrients that play a role in regulating blood pressure and heart health. Many products on the market are wholegrain such as popcorn and flaxseed.  And some cereals are also wholegrain and are mentioned on the label of the product.

5. Reduce the salt in your food
Eating a lot of salt can contribute to high blood pressure, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Eating fresh foods and making your own soups and stews can reduce the amount of salt you eat.

6. Allow yourself an occasional treat
Allow yourself an indulgence every now and then. A candy bar or handful of potato chips won't derail your heart-healthy diet. If over-indulgence is the exception, rather than the rule, you'll balance things out over the long term. What's important is that you eat healthy foods most of the time.

7. Sugar can be enjoyed in moderation
Many healthy foods, such as all bran cereal, are not really that enjoyable without a little sugar.  Sugar does help us to follow a healthy diet and, when eaten as part of a healthy diet, will not cause heart disease.
 
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE