Ten “one-spoonful” ways to help you manage your weight and provide your body with nutrients.

1. Apple cider vinegar for blood sugar support
Apple cider vinegar has a number of uses around the home as well as externally and internally for the body. When you add a teaspoonful to 350ml of water, you’ll be adding in nutrients that you wouldn’t get from water alone, and hydrate yourself at the same time. You’ll also be helping to keep your blood sugar levels stable. The best apple cider vinegar is organic and unpasteurised. One brand that is highly recommended is Braggs, which you can find at your local Health 2000. 

Why it works: Monitoring your blood sugar is a good way to avoid spikes that can lead to weight gain, making it easier to control cravings. Keeping hydrated is also important, so make sure you drink plenty of water.

2. Coconut oil to support your appetite
Coconut oil has several benefits, and one is helping to manage weight. When comparing oils, it’s easy to see that coconut oil has more saturated fat than some of the most commonly used oils, but it also contains healthy fats, and the saturated fat it does contain it not the same sort found in a cheeseburger! You can use it in cooking, or just have spoonful if you’re looking to hold yourself over between meals.  A quality coconut oil is LifeFoods organic coconut oil 

Why it works: Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that not only help you feel full when you eat, but increase your metabolism.

3. Ginger for digestion
Ginger is a spice that will help your digestion. You don’t have to stuff a spoonful of ginger powder or minced ginger in your mouth to get the benefit. Add a teaspoon or tablespoon to a dish you’re making and you’ll get the positive effects. It can help spice up a soup or chili, and give a smoothie some punch.
 
Why it works: Ginger works on the body in two ways; it helps improve digestion, which alone will help you manage your weight if you have struggled with a sluggish digestion. It also acts as a metabolism-booster, which means you’ll burn more calories an hour.

4. Thyme for antioxidants and vitamins
Thyme can make food so delicious, and the good news is that it can also assist weight loss. It’s great in soups, stews, meat dishes and even on wholegrain pizza. Various types of delicious sauces can also be prepared with this herb.
 
Why it works: Thyme is a powerful antioxidant and contains various vitamins. A great diuretic, it can help with water retention and to speed up the detoxification process.

5. Turmeric for antioxidants
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, used for effective liver detoxification.  Incorporating turmeric into meals is one of the best ways to enjoy the benefits of this spice.

Why it works: Turmeric is one of the lesser-known spices that is effective for weight loss. It acts as an anti-inflammatory, so it will help you ache less and give you more get-up-and-go.

6. Flaxseed for omega 3s
Ground flaxseed and flaxseed oil are excellent sources of omega 3. Omega 3 is essential for health and it can also play a role in weight management.  Just use it in salads, soups or smoothies to boost nutrition without changing the taste much.

Why it works: Flaxseed is an excellent source of fibre. A 2012 Harvard University study found that people who consumed flaxseed on a daily basis lost 37% more weight than the participants that did not. It is also an excellent source of antioxidants and promotes digestion.  A good brand to try is Good Health Flaxseed Oil.

7. Cinnamon for essential minerals and fibre
Cinnamon can help make some tasty desserts, but did you know it could assist in weight management as well?  Try taking a spoonful of cinnamon and honey and mix them together in hot water.

Why it works: Cinnamon is an excellent source of dietary fibre that will enhance the functioning of your digestive tract and also help you feel fuller. Controlling hunger and cravings is one of the most important goals for achieving sustainable weight loss. Cinnamon has a powerful regulatory effect on blood sugar levels. It also increases insulin levels, thus ensuring the proper metabolism of glucose.

8. Lemon juice to support the immune system
Consume a warm glass of water with a spoonful of lemon juice in the morning to enhance the functioning of your digestive tract. Lemon juice contains antioxidants that are essential for overcoming insulin resistance and breaking down those stubborn fat depots.

Why it works: Lemon juice is a diuretic and a mild laxative. It can help with water retention and remove toxic build-up. It is also a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps fight ills and chills.

9. Cacao powder for antioxidants
Cacao powder contains less sugar than normal milk chocolate and is a great source of antioxidants. Watching your weight doesn’t have to be difficult and restrictive – the trick is choosing the right foods and keeping the quantities small. Adding a spoon of cacao to your morning smoothie is a great way to curb those chocolate cravings. Try LifeFoods Cacao powder – you can buy it online or see our caring staff at your local Health 2000.

Why it works: There is an abundance of antioxidants in cacao powder and contains high levels of serotonin (the happy hormone). It has a positive impact on your digestion and helps keep those cravings under control.

10. Mashed avocado for healthy fats
When doubting what to eat, grab an avocado. Mashing it up makes it even easier to digest, and a spoonful will give you a jump on the amount of fibre you need to consume each day. It’s important to get enough daily fibre – a minimum of 25 grams if you can manage it.

Why it works: Avocados are full of healthy fats, which actually help you burn fat rather than gain it. They’re also a great source of potassium, an important mineral when trying to manage weight.

If you need any more advice on weight management, pop into your local Health 2000 store and talk to our caring staff.