Did you know! you can still eat Normally, and maintain a Healthy weight?

Contrary to popular belief, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight doesn’t require extreme diets or sacrificing your favorite foods. By understanding and applying a few key principles, you can enjoy a varied and satisfying diet while keeping your weight in check. Here’s a few Tips;

Mindful Eating: Meals are often a social event, enjoyed with family and friends. Embrace this tradition by focusing on the conversation and the experience of the meal. For instance, when enjoying a plate of ugali and sukuma wiki (collard greens), eat slowly and savor each bite.

Pay attention to your hunger and fullness signals, stopping when you feel satisfied rather than stuffed. This practice not only helps in managing portion sizes but also enhances the enjoyment of traditional dishes, while keeping your weight in check.

Balanced Meals: A typical meal of githeri (a mix of maize and beans) is an excellent source of protein and complex carbohydrates. Add some kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad) to the side for extra nutrients and fiber.

Ensuring that each meal includes a good mix of protein (like beans, fish, or lean meats), healthy fats (such as avocado), and complex carbohydrates (like maize, sweet potatoes, or millet) helps keep you full and satisfied longer, reducing the need for unhealthy snacking.

Portion Control: Instead of completely avoiding foods you love, enjoy them in moderation. For example, when indulging in a favorite dish like nyama choma (grilled meat), balance it with a generous portion of vegetables such as mukimo (a mashed mixture of green peas, maize, and potatoes).

Use smaller plates and bowls to help control portion sizes, and try to fill half your plate with vegetables. This way, you can still enjoy your favorite foods without overeating.

Regular Physical Activity: Walking is a common and effective form of exercise; you can take a brisk walk to the market instead of driving. Engaging in local sports like football, or even participating in cultural dances, can be a fun and effective way to stay active.

Physical activity not only boosts your metabolism but also allows you to balance the calories you consume with those you burn, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight while enjoying a varied diet.

Hydration: Drinking enough water is crucial for overall health and can help control your appetite. Start your day with a glass of water, and continue drinking water throughout the day. Herbal teas made from local ingredients like lemongrass or hibiscus can also be a refreshing way to stay hydrated.

Avoid sugary drinks and opt for water or natural fruit juices instead. Sometimes, feelings of hunger are actually signs of dehydration, so staying well-hydrated can help reduce unnecessary snacking.

This is what you should not do!

• Skipping Meals: Skipping meals, especially breakfast, can lead to overeating later in the day. In most cases, breakfast is often light but essential. Avoid skipping a nutritious breakfast like uji (fermented porridge) or maandazi (fried dough) paired with a piece of fruit, as it sets the tone for balanced eating throughout the day. Skipping meals can cause your metabolism to slow down and increase cravings for unhealthy snacks.
• Overindulging in Processed Foods: Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt. While it might be tempting to reach for convenient snacks like crisps or sodas, these can contribute to weight gain and poor health. Instead, opt for whole foods like fresh fruits, nuts, or traditional snacks like roasted maize. Limiting processed foods and focusing on natural, whole foods can help maintain a healthy weight.
• Emotional Eating: Using food as a way to cope with stress or emotions can lead to overeating, particularly of unhealthy foods. It’s common to celebrate with food or seek comfort in meals. Be mindful of your emotional state and avoid turning to comfort foods like excessive amounts of mutura or mandazi when stressed. Instead, find alternative ways to cope, such as talking to a friend, engaging in physical activity, or practicing relaxation techniques.
• Ignoring Portion Sizes: Eating large portions, even of healthy foods, can lead to weight gain. It’s easy to serve large portions of foods like pilau (spiced rice) or matoke (plantains). Be conscious of portion sizes and avoid the “clean plate” mentality. Using smaller plates and being aware of serving sizes can help prevent overeating.
• Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes significantly to weight gain. Modern conveniences have reduced the need for physical labor, leading to less daily activity. Avoid spending too much time sitting, whether at work, home, or during leisure activities. Engage in regular physical activities, such as walking, cycling, or participating in community sports.