Let’s Talk Model Diets

#WHATHEALTHYMODELSEAT

I always get asked what my “diet secrets” are to keep healthy, fit and nourished. Truth is, I have only adapted simple, natural and wholesome secrets that have helped keep my insides very happy. Here are some of my favourite foods that I absolutely cannot live without:

Organic cinnamon/cinnamon sticks: I usually add these to warm unsweetened almond milk or my matcha teas. I also enjoy adding cinnamon as a natural sweetener to my homemade desserts and pancakes. This special spice helps to lower blood sugar levels and a great aid with weight loss.

Garlic: One of my favourite foods to cook with! Not only a great flavour to foods but it’s great for your skin, hair, heart and overall health. It also helps to prevent colds and infections. If you’re brave enough, chop a few raw garlic pieces and intake with water before bed! There’s not a bad thing to say about garlic, really.

Matcha/Green Tea: You won’t find me drinking any pop sodas, coffee or sugary drinks. I stick to drinking about 2-6 cups of green tea per day. Yes – even in the summer! It is naturally caffeinated and very high in antioxidants. Especially organic matcha! (Not talking about Starbucks matcha drinks btw – sorry!) Green tea is an excellent metabolism booster, calorie burner and natural detoxifier. Have a few cups of plain brewed green tea (or 2 scoops of matcha powder) in between meals or right after a heavy dinner.

Lemons: One of the best habits I picked up was having warm water with lemon every morning before breakfast. Having it on an empty stomach gives your insides a chance to wake up and start working after a long, restful sleep. It’s an excellent source of potassium, an immune booster and a cleanser that encourages proper digestion and helps to flush out the toxins in your body. Squeezing lemons onto your dishes is also a great way to get your daily dose. One of the magical properties of lemons is that it alkalizes your body by balancing the pH level which helps to prevent infections and sickness. Some researches say that it may even help with preventing or treating cancer.

Broccoli/Spinach/Kale: Lunch, dinner and even as a snack! Steam it, bake it, occasionally lightly fry it or just eat it raw. You’ve been told since you were 2 years old to eat your greens! High in protein (that’s right!) and the healthiest green vegetables you can have everyday. I highly encourage your lunch/dinner plates to be at least 65% of dark leafy greens. You can never have too much! As a special healthy treat, bake kale chips in coconut or olive oil. Yum!

Organic cold pressed virgin coconut oil: A natural anti fungal and the best (good) fats your body needs. Use it to cook with instead of your usual oils. Bake with it instead of butter. Take 2 teaspoons of it before bed to help with stubborn weight. Or just smother your entire body in it for silky skin!

Raw almonds: I have these bad boys as a healthy snack!They’re high in protein and omega fats and keep you full in between meals. For dinner, I like to sprinkle roasted almonds in my quinoa or brown rice bowls for added nutrients.

Chia seeds: I can’t get enough of chia seeds. They’re a simple and nutritional addition to any dish. I enjoy making a delicious chia seed pudding with unsweetened almond milk and fresh berries for breakfast or a quick treat. These powerful tiny seeds have a huge nutritional profile as well. They’re a great source of omega-3 fats, calcium, magnesium and even high in fiber!

Blueberries: Don’t underestimate these little guys. They’re small but they offer huge health benefits! Blueberries contain antioxidants, which work to neutralize free radicals linked to the development of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other age-related conditions. Packed with Vitamin C and compared to other fruits, are very low in sugar! Add them to a breakfast chia seed pudding, smoothies or just have them as a low calorie snack!

Remember, if nature didn’t make it, don’t eat it! Eating fresh, wholesome foods is the key to sustaining a long, healthy life!