Are you looking for some effective ways to lose weight fast? If so, then you are at the right place as this Tastessence article will provide you with food combining menus that are safe and effective in making you shed those extra kilos.
Contrary to the common belief that fat or carbohydrates rich foods are the sole reasons for weight gain in most of the people, research shows one of the major causes for obesity and weight gain problems is eating foods in wrong combination and proportions. Since every food we consume has different digestive requirements, it becomes essential to eat food in right combination for easy digestion and metabolism.
Besides gaining weight, eating foods in wrong combination can also result in severe indigestion, discomfort, and putrefaction, and the undigested food, being a breeding ground for bacteria can lead to a variety of digestive problems like acidity, constipation, bloating, heartburn, etc. Hence, proper food combining is vital for good digestion, nutrients absorption, and for maintaining the overall health. But to decide what to eat, how to make the right food combination, when to eat, etc., may sound a bit complicated.
Rules
The concept of food combining was innovated by Dr. William Howard Hay in the 20th century, which stressed on eating certain foods together and in specific meals, for proper digestion and fast weight loss. Hence, given below are some basic food combining rules that state which types of foods should be eaten together or separately.
» Carbohydrates with Acids and Proteins
The first food combining rule states that one should avoid eating foods high in carbohydrates or starch (including bread, rice, potatoes, cereals, etc.) with foods rich in acids (including lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruits, pineapples, tomatoes, and all citrus fruits) or proteins (like fish, meat, eggs, tofu, milk, etc.). Since proteins and carbohydrates require acidic and alkaline enzymes, respectively, for their digestion; when consumed together, they neutralize each other and retard digestion.
» Proteins with Proteins and Fat
When it comes to proteins, which are building blocks of our body, avoid eating more than one protein at a meal. Similarly, avoid eating fats and proteins together, as some fatty foods require more time for digestion. Also, foods high in proteins and acids should be eaten separately as the acids of acid foods inhibit the secretion of digestive acids necessary for protein digestion and absorption in the body.
» Fruits and Vegetables
Though fruits and vegetables always benefit us, at times, their combination may result in some digestive problems. Green leafy vegetables go well with almost all types of foods, but avoid having them with fruits like melon, which is more than 90% liquid, and so should be consumed separately. Also fruits which serve as best foods during a weight loss diet, should not be eaten in combination with foods rich in starch and proteins.
» Sugar and Desserts
Desserts, being the most irresistible part of the meal, should be avoided as far as possible. They offer no benefits to our body, rather are heavy on stomach, and ferment into alcohols, acetic acids, and vinegars. Likewise, foods that are high in sugar and fat such as fat meats, sour apples, beans, peanuts, peas, cereals, bread and jam, or hot cakes and honey or syrup, should also be avoided, as they retard the digestion process.
Menu Ideas
A typical food menu should include a breakfast of fruits, lunch comprising vegetable salad, cooked green veggies, and one starch rich food, and dinner consisting of salad, two cooked non-starch veggies, and a starch food item. However, given below are some sample menus for food combining that will help you in planning your meal well.
» Sample Menu #1
Breakfast: An oatmeal porridge or cornflakes, with yogurt and sultanas.
Lunch: Fresh fruit or vegetable salad, potato roast or hot garlic potatoes, salad, and a banana.
Dinner: Roast chicken with some root and leaf vegetables, lemon cream or poached fish, with selection of vegetables and apple pudding.
» Sample Menu #2
Breakfast: Mixed grain bread, toasted or toast and marmalade.
Lunch: Cauliflower and potato soup, fresh fruit salad, or pasta with pesto salad, and dried fruit salad.
Dinner: Sausages with a selection of vegetables, or blue cheese and walnut sauce ,with a selection of vegetables and fresh fruit.
To sum up, we can say that by making healthy food selections, and eating them in the right proportions and concentration can help us to control our weight, and maintain digestive health by staying away from various digestive complications. For optimum benefits, along with following, the guidelines given in this article, ensure that you drink enough water, chew your food properly, and exercise regularly.