Whole Foods for Your Health

We know that VíaVienté is a whole food, and that whole foods are the BEST source of nutrition to feed our bodies to stay healthy.  Here are some other facts about whole foods that can help support your good health.

Protein keeps your blood sugar levels steady and hunger at bay.  You burn more calories digesting protein than you do digesting carbohydrates or fats.  That is part of the reason that low-carb diets seem to work so well.  Meat, poultry and fish are good protein sources.  However, you can’t live on protein alone.  Despite the no-carb craze, your body needs carbohydrates.  The key is to eat unprocessed, whole grain foods like brown rice, whole wheat bread, and pasta.

Beans are a good source of protein, fiber and iron.  Soybeans offer a high source of low-fat protein and are low on the glycemic index.  This means your blood sugar levels won’t spike then crash an hour later, pushing you to the cookie jar.

According to a study published in the international journal of obesity, calcuim and protein that come from low-fat dairy products promote weight loss and help to maintain muscle mass.

Consuming fish regularly has been shown to lower levels of the essential fatty acid leptin, a hormone linked to a slower metabolism and obesity.

A USDA study concludes that as little as 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon added to food reduces blood sugar levels and increases insulin levels.

Pectin has a water-binding property that may limit the amount of fat your cells absorb.  Although all fresh fruit contains pectin, apples and berries are the best source.

Garlic has been touted as a miracle herb. Proponents say it boosts your metabolism and keeps your insulin levels low to maximize fat burning, making bad breath a small price to pay.

Ginger is another one of those wonder foods that has been created with dozens of health benefits.  It is said to expand the blood vessels and increase metabolism.

Olive oil is a good fat.  In fact, it is so good that it helps you burn fat and keeps your cholesterol down.

Be sure you drink plenty of water.  Dehydration slows down your metabolism and often disguises itself as hunger.  If you feel hungry, drink a glass of water. It might make the pangs go away.