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Tag: Nutrition

All the latest breaking news on Nutrition. Browse THEGAYUK’s complete collection of news, articles and commentary on Nutrition.

  • Want better sex? Try these incredible foods to boost your sex

    Want better sex? Try these incredible foods to boost your sex

    Adding food to the bedroom is a classic way to spice things up with a partner. But did you know that food can heighten libido and improve your performance between the sheets? We-Vibe has collated the best foodie tricks and tips for you to put to the (taste) test!

    – Figs: These small fruits pack some big benefits. They are bursting with calcium, iron, potassium, and more of that stimulating zinc. They are also packed with fibre, which boosts heart health and satisfies hunger without adding to your waistline.

    – Strawberries: Don’t forget to bring this mouth-watering dessert on your next picnic. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin B, which has been linked to high sperm counts in men. Go one step further and coat them in chocolate, as it is full of libido-boosting methylxanthines! (Why do you think it’s such a popular Valentine’s Day gift?!)

     

    (C) BIGSTOCK

    -Almonds: These healthy nuts are said to act as a sexual stimulant and a fertility aid, so if you’re trying for a baby, start snacking! They are rich in nutrients and in several minerals that are important for sexual health and reproduction, including zinc, selenium, and vitamin E. Zinc can also help enhance sexual desire – added bonus!

    -Avocados: The name for this South American fruit derives from the Aztec language Nahuatl, in which it meant ‘testicle’ – a name chosen for the fruit’s unusual shape. It may seem like a bit of a stretch to us, but avocados do have some sexy benefits! They are rich in unsaturated fats, making them very heart-healthy. And a healthy heart keeps the blood flowing to all the right places! Men with underlying heart disease are twice as likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction, so feel free to add some extra avocado slices to your salads.
    -Eggs: Poached, scrambled or fried, eggs are sure to rev you up after a long day at work. They are full of protein, which keeps you going without packing on the calories. They’re also an excellent source of amino acids, which combat certain types of heart ailments as well as erectile dysfunction. There’s a reason Dean Martin likes his eggs with a kiss in the morning…

  • These five foods will make you a god (sort of) in bed

    Adding food to the bedroom is a classic way to spice things up with a partner. But did you know that food can heighten libido and improve your performance between the sheets? We-Vibe has collated the best foodie tricks and tips for you to put to the (taste) test!

    – Figs: These small fruits pack some big benefits. They are bursting with calcium, iron, potassium, and more of that stimulating zinc. They are also packed with fibre, which boosts heart health and satisfies hunger without adding to your waistline.

    – Strawberries: Don’t forget to bring this mouth-watering dessert on your next picnic. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin B, which has been linked to high sperm counts in men. Go one step further and coat them in chocolate, as it is full of libido-boosting methylxanthines! (Why do you think it’s such a popular Valentine’s Day gift?!)

    -Almonds: These healthy nuts are said to act as a sexual stimulant and a fertility aid, so if you’re trying for a baby, start snacking! They are rich in nutrients and in several minerals that are important for sexual health and reproduction, including zinc, selenium, and vitamin E. Zinc can also help enhance sexual desire – added bonus!

    -Avocados: The name for this South American fruit derives from the Aztec language Nahuatl, in which it meant ‘testicle’ – a name chosen for the fruit’s unusual shape. It may seem like a bit of a stretch to us, but avocados do have some sexy benefits! They are rich in unsaturated fats, making them very heart-healthy. And a healthy heart keeps the blood flowing to all the right places! Men with underlying heart disease are twice as likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction, so feel free to add some extra avocado slices to your salads.

    -Eggs: Poached, scrambled or fried, eggs are sure to rev you up after a long day at work. They are full of protein, which keeps you going without packing on the calories. They’re also an excellent source of amino acids, which combat certain types of heart ailments as well as erectile dysfunction. There’s a reason Dean Martin likes his eggs with a kiss in the morning…

  • Unhappy liver? Here’s 7 incredible foods you need this Christmas

    Let’s face it, Christmastime can be a real killer for your body.

    Foods really good for the liver

    No fear here are seven incredible foods to help boost your liver function.

    Come the New Year; everyone will be talking about detoxing. Bottles of wine that were stashed in the vegetable drawer of the fridge will be replaced with, well, vegetables! We’ll dust off our blenders, and we’ll be juicing anything green. But what does the term detoxing mean? And can we reverse the effects of our festive indulgences?

    The good news is that our liver, the second largest organ (the first being the skin) and the detoxification hub of our bodies, is busy detoxifying all of the time. Even in December! The liver metabolises everything that we eat and are exposed to and detoxifies the entire body’s system from all ingested toxins.

    Over the festive period, it is likely that our liver will have to work a little harder than usual, with over-consumption of alcohol, sugar and processed foods. But we can be motivated by the fact that the liver is amazingly regenerative, and through diet, there is a lot we can do to help it. This essentially is what we are aiming to do when we “detox”, and certain foods have powerful liver-boosting effects.

    Top 7 foods to boost liver function

    1) Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and kale. These are all rich in sulphur-containing compounds, which help the liver to detoxify by boosting the production of high levels of detoxifying enzymes.

    2) Garlic is rich in sulphur-containing compounds, and also, contains selenium and allicin- two powerful nutrients that help protect the liver from toxic damage.

    3) Green tea is loaded with catechins, a type of antioxidant (compounds that help the body get rid of harmful free radicals) that have been shown in studies to promote liver function and prevent the accumulation of dangerous fat in the liver

    4) Turmeric, the key component is curcumin, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that prevents the liver from damage and can help to regenerate new liver cells. Turmeric also helps to stimulate the production of bile, necessary for the breakdown and processing of fats and proteins from your food, and the removal of waste and toxins.

    5) Bitter greens, such as dandelion, chicory and rocket. The bitterness of these foods helps to stimulate bile flow. They are also high in chlorophyll which plays a role in cleansing the blood and ridding the body of ingested toxins.

    6) Beetroot is bursting with antioxidants and folic acid for detoxification. It also contains betaine, a compound which promotes the regeneration of liver cells.

    7) Avocados are rich in glutathione, the ultimate liver-boosting antioxidant which prevents damage to the liver and aids detoxification.

    It really cannot be emphasised enough; loving your liver is one of the most important things that you can do for your health this winter.

  • 7 amazing foods for your liver

    Why You Should Love Your Liver This January, 7 Amazing Foods To Boost Your Liver Function

    Foods really good for the liver

    It’s the New Year, and of course, everyone is talking about detoxing. Bottles of wine stashed in the vegetable drawer of the fridge are being replaced with, well, vegetables! We are dusting off our blenders, and juicing anything green. But what does the term detoxing actually mean? And can we really reverse the effects of our festive indulgences with a dry January?!

    The good news is that our liver, the second largest organ (the first being the skin) and the detoxification hub of our bodies, is busy detoxifying all of the time. Even in December! The liver metabolises everything that we eat and are exposed to and detoxifies the entire body’s system from all ingested toxins.

    Over the festive period, it is likely that our liver has had to work a little harder than usual, having been overburdened with alcohol, sugar and processed foods not usually consumed in such vast quantities! But we can be motivated by the fact that the liver is amazingly regenerative, and through diet, there is a lot we can do to help it. This essentially is what we are aiming to do when we “detox”, and there are certain foods that have powerful liver-boosting effects.

    Top 7 foods to boost liver function

    1) Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and kale. These are all rich in sulphur-containing compounds, which help the liver to detoxify by boosting the production of high levels of detoxifying enzymes.

    2) Garlic is rich in sulphur-containing compounds, and in addition, contains selenium and allicin- two powerful nutrients that help protect the liver from toxic damage.

    3) Green tea is loaded with catechins, a type of antioxidant (compounds that help the body get rid of harmful free radicals) that have been shown in studies to promote liver function and prevent the accumulation of dangerous fat in the liver http://www.nature.com/ijo/journal/v26/n11/abs/0802141a.html.

    4) Turmeric, the key component is curcumin, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that prevents the liver from damage and can help to regenerate new liver cells. Turmeric also helps to stimulate the production of bile, necessary for the breakdown and processing of fats and proteins from your food, and the removal of waste and toxins.

    5) Bitter greens, such as dandelion, chicory and rocket. The bitterness of these foods helps to stimulate bile flow. They are also high in chlorophyll which plays a role in cleansing the blood and ridding the body of ingested toxins.

    6) Beetroot is bursting with antioxidants and folic acid for detoxification. It also contains betaine, a compound which promotes the regeneration of liver cells.

    7) Avocados are rich in glutathione, the ultimate liver-boosting antioxidant which prevents damage to the liver and aids detoxification.

    It really cannot be emphasized enough; loving your liver is one of the most important things that you can do for your health this January.

  • FOOD: The Power Of Plant, Healing HIV

    FOOD: The Power Of Plant, Healing HIV

    The Power Of Plant, Healing HIV

    By no means am I suggesting medication be swapped in favour of natural remedies, and whenever incorporating a supplement or out of the ordinary addition to your diet, you should always seek medical advice in the first instance.

    After recently being diagnosed HIV myself, and try as I might, as I’m sure some HIV-positive people may be able to relate to when they first found out, I could not find the wonder drug online to cure me! I’m assuming this was my denial stage. After re-assessing and implementing a new diet, I started delving into plants and herbs that had undergone testing and scientific research that provided some promising results.

    The more I looked, the more evidence I came across not only from clinical trials but professional herbalists, ancient practices of medicine, even biblical references. It would seem that the plant world does have some interesting attributes in helping to strengthen our immune system, and dis-encouraging the growth of the HIV-1 virus within the body. A lot of the evidence found to support anti-HIV activity also shows anti-cancer activity too.

    The following plants/herbs/spices are readily available and would not only benefit people that are HIV positive but could be used within any diet/regime for general and specific health issues. It is not suggested that you take it upon yourself to incorporate any of the following before seeking advice/approval from your GP / Nurse / or nutritionist (especially if you are on any medication as certain plants have been known to interfere or react with meds). Some of the studies carried out have been done so via test tube so it is unclear how reactive the plant is in the human body.

    If you are considering discussing the possibility of incorporating supplements with a professional, then it’s best to ensure you initially bring it back to basics and ensure you have a healthy diet and are eating the right foods for your body. Spirulina and pomegranates will do nothing for you if you’re a chicken nugget and chocolate fiend.

    Herbalists can help treat a huge range of health issues; immune system issues, allergies, autoimmune conditions, energy, stamina, fatigue, emotional health, hormonal health, fertility, digestion, nutrition, skin, heart & circulation, and joints & bones. To find a herbalist near you, click here.

    MANGOSTEEN

    (Queen of the tropical fruits) Historically used in folk medicine, this fruit is thought to have come from South East Asia. The entire fruit (rind, flesh, leaves, bark) contain Xanthones, which have; anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, to name a few. A study which took place showed that xanthone mangostin, derived from the mangosteen inhibited the replication cycle of HIV. (SOURCEhttp://www.gayprideband.com/Mangosteen%20Studies%20PDF.pdf

    BITTER MELON (wild cucumber)

    An unusual vegetable-fruit used as a healing aid for intestinal or stomach disorders (ulcers, colitis, constipation, worms). Bitter melon has also proved successful for people suffering with; psoriasis, liver disease, kidney stones, and diabetes. MAP-30, a plant protein within the veggie-fruit has been found to fight against the HIV virus. (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7665070

    HYSSOP

    In Greek, this word means ‘Holy Herb’. In fact, it is so holy it’s mentioned ten times in the Old Testament, being used to purify sacred areas and cleanse leprosy sufferers. Hyssop is an immune system strengthener and blood nourisher. The crude extracts of dried out Hyssop Officinalis leaves showed potent antiviral qualities and anti-HIV activity. (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7665070)

    OLIVE LEAF EXTRACTION

    Olive leaf is simply the leaves from an olive tree. With an antioxidant level doubling that of green tea extract, and 400% higher than vitamin C, no wonder the olive tree was referred to as “the tree of life” in the Bible. The real treasure within the extract lies within its Oleuropein, that contains; anti-fungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. The extract is used for blood pressure, cholesterol, heart disease, ulcers, diabetes, cancer, HIV, and much more. Studies found that the Oleuropein prevents acute infection and replication of the HIV virus.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12878215
    BLACK SEED EXTRACT (Nigella Sativa)
    I recognised this immediately as an avid Nigella Lawson fan, she uses these seeds in one of her recipes. The seed has been used in medicines for thousands of years and was also reported to have been found in King Tut’s tomb. Used to encourage healing headaches, toothaches, digestive issues, haemorrhoids, respitorary issues, lowering blood pressure, treating cancer, and boosting the immune system. I read somewhere that the only thing black seeds cannot cure is death.
    Interestingly, one of the studies that were carried out on an HIV patient induced a sero-reversion (tested negative for HIV), and remained at healthy CD4 counts 24 months after the experiment.(SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24311845

    SPIRULINA

    For some reason, I don’t have the capacity to say this word correctly the first time I go to say it. Spirulina is a high-protein “super food” which is formed from a blue-green alga. Rich in vitamins; A, B1, B6, B12, C, along with proteins and minerals. Spirulina has been found to inhibit the replication of HIV in the blood. Available in most health food stores, I have personally started to incorporate this into my diet.

    (SOURCE:http://journals.lww.com/jaids/Abstract/1998/05010/Inhibition_of_HIV_1_Replication_by_an_Aqueous.2.aspx

    NEEM LEAF EXTRACT

    The neem plant is native to India and it’s surrounding regions. The entire plant can be used in medicine and has been done so, especially within traditional medicines such as Ayurveda, to treat malaria, cancer, skin diseases, and diabetes to name a few. With research into it’s benefits to people with HIV, the results concluded a significant influence on CD4 cells.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17667213

    LICORICE

    No introduction necessary. Personally, I cannot stand the stuff! However, as a supplement for someone with HIV, it could potentially slow the activation of any dormant immune cells, which would prevent the virus from replicating within the blood. Liquorice root contains the compound glycyrrhizin, which is the part that helps prevent replication. Liquorice root is also full of many anti-depressant qualities and could be used as an alternative to St. John’s Wort. Large quantities are not advised (no more than 7g a day) as it may have implications with testosterone in the body.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12679601

    SUMAC (Rhus chinensis)

    Sumac fruits are ground into a red powder, used widely to spice dishes in the Middle East. It has a lemony flavour to it and is often used in hummus. Research has shown that compounds within sumac have anti-HIV activity and would be a useful medicinal plant for HIV patients. Sumac is also a wonderful antioxidant.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16368204

    SCHISANDRA

    From East Asia, this “five flavour fruit”, would traditionally be used in Chinese medicine to fight infection, help sufferers of insomnia, and promote healthy skin. Schisandra contains anti-aging properties and has also been used to normalise blood sugar/pressure, whilst boosting your immune system. The fruit has had great results for treating liver disease/hepatitis. China developed a liver-protecting drug titled DBD which is made from compounds within the fruit. The fruit contains lingnans, and it is these that have demonstrated anti-HIV virus activity.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19413342

    ROOIBOS LEAVES (redbush)

    I love this tea. I probably drink about 10 cups a day. A study shows a polysaccharide within rooibois leaves has strong anti-HIV properties. They concluded the polysaccharide plays a big part in the mechanism for the virus binding itself to T Cells, and the prevention of that. It is unclear whether this can be achieved by just drinking the tea, however. On the plus side the polyphenols within the tea help to ease headaches, allergies, bone weakness, asthma, eczema, stomach cramps, and also boost your immune system!

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9058964

    ELDERBERRY

    Massive antioxidant qualities within the elderberry. Its juice was actually used to combat a flu epidemic in Panama, 1995. Elderberries help the immune system’s response to when it is under attack or low and is also rich in vitamins A,B,C. The experiment that took place showed that flavanoid compounds in elderberries blocked HIV-1 entry.

    (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19641233

    ASTRAGALUS

    The root of this herb is used to treat anaemia, kidney disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, allergies and HIV. Researchers claim that the herb increases the T-cell count within the body, making this a good immunity booster. Herbalists have used this herb in their medicines for years. Andrew Weil, author of “Spontaneous Healing”- which is an amazing book by the way- has used astragalus with his clients that are HIV positive.

    (SOURCE:http://www.aidsmeds.com/articles/hiv_astragalus_telomere_1667_15595.shtml
    Annoyingly, I cannot stand any of the following as they are all type of mushroom. If you are like me, then they are available in tinctures, capsules, and other complexes. But again, consult your doctor first. Certain types of mushroom have had amazing coverage on their antioxidant and health promoting properties. A lot of research has gone into their impact on cancer, along with HIV.

    MAITAKE (the dancing mushroom) Maitake, or “the miracle mushroom” have been eaten in Asia for years. As a medicine, it has been used for in the treatment of cancer, hepatitis, diabetes, high cholesterol and HIV. Polysaccharides and beta glucans within the mushroom aid the immune system and promote T-Cells.

    (SOURCE: http://doctorschar.com/archives/maitake-and-hiv-infection/

    CHAGA

    This mushroom is one of the highest antioxidants in the world. It has also been publicised previously about its health benefits with cancer. Chaga mushrooms have been useful in treating over 40 conditions. For extensive information on the Chaga mushroom read here:http://www.chagamountain.com/health-benefits.html

    REISHI

    You probably won’t ever see this kind of mushroom in a kitchen. They are bitter and hard. In medicine, they like the Chaga mushrooms are an amazing antioxidant and free radical fighter. Reishi mushrooms are also considered to be beneficial to those suffering from cancer, as they may suppress tumour growth. Reishi mushrooms have also been used with respiratory issues, such as asthma, as they appear to have a healing effect on the lungs. (SOURCE:http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-reishi-mushrooms.html )

    An experiment showed that the reishi mushroom did, in fact, contain compounds that would help inhibit the HIV virus (SOURCE:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22347784 )

    SHIITAKE

    We may recognise this mushroom the most from our love and knowledge of eastern food. This mushroom is a fantastic source of iron. The shiitake has been documented to provide immune support, protection against rheumatoid arthritis (RA), have cardiovascular and anti-cancer benefits, (SOURCEhttp://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?dbid=122&tname=foodspice ) and test tube studies showed that lignins within the shiitake prevented HIV cells from attacking the needed T-cells. (SOURCEhttp://www.fungihealth.com/shiitake-mushroom-against-aids )

    POMEGRANATE

    Obviously, we are going to see a lot of vitamin C in the pomegranate, with that a high level of anti-oxidants, in fact, more so than the almighty acai berry or green tea. Pomegranates do wonders for your skin. Not only can pomegranates help a dry type skin, but they can also help soothe outbreaks on more oily/combo type skin. This vibrant fruit promotes skin regeneration and can help slow the ageing process on our skin. For the rest of our body pomegranates can help; cardiovascular health, bone quality (from the vitamin K), aid digestion, treat anaemia (pomegranates are also high in iron) and have found to contain a property that helps lose weight. Research with pomegranates and cancer has suggested that they could help treat prostate and breast cancer. (source:http://www.med-health.net/Benefits-Of-Pomegranate.html )

    An experiment that took place using pomegranate juice showed that it may help in blocking the HIV virus from binding to T-cells. (SOURCEhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16387698 )

    NATIONAL HIV TESTING WEEK IS 22nd-30th NOVEMBER

  • Is sugar the modern addiction?

    Sugar. It’s the latest in a continuing circle of foodstuffs to be condemned.

    You’ve probably heard about Dr Robert Lustig’s diatribe against it, at least in passing. It seems like common sense. We all know too many sweets or fizzy drinks are bad for you, but is it really as bad as he says? Isn’t it just about moderation?

    In his book, Fat Chance: ‘The Hidden Truth About Sugar, Obesity and Disease’, Dr Lustig claims that we have underestimated the dangers of sugar. It is not just an unhealthy additive, but an addictive substance on a par with tobacco, alcohol and cocaine. The symptoms of withdrawal can be just as strong, which is why that diet can be so hard to keep up. It’s a relatively recent problem, he says, ironically caused by our own discoveries about health.

    As we realised the dangers of excessive fat consumption, food producers started to create foods with less fat. But in doing so, they had to add sugar to keep it tasting good. The more sugar they added, the more we bought their foods, and so added sugar became profitable, not just a necessary replacement for the fat. And that’s why those same producers will fight so hard to tell you that a little is ok, and that you don’t need to cut it out completely – because they will lose profits if we avoid their sugary foods.

    While you can’t argue with his basic premise, this is all starting to sound a bit conspiracy heavy though, isn’t it? Well, so did the tobacco story, but now the truth is out that the conspiracy really did exist. I’m not paranoid – they really are out to get me!

    Certainly, there are plenty of stories out there that give anecdotal weight to his argument. There’s Michelle Allen, 47, who weighed over 26 stone at her heaviest and was a size 32. She was addicted to cake and claims to have spent £87,360 over 30 years before changing her ways. She’s now lost an impressive 17 stone and has dropped to a size 12. And Denise, who shared her story on this blog about weight loss, saying ‘The most interesting thing I’ve discovered is that in giving up sugar and starch, the “emotional eating” went with it. Speaking strictly for myself, I have concluded that it was not emotional eating, it was addiction, a very physical addiction to sugar and starch. Because it went away when I quit eating them.’

    But David Katz, Director of Yale Prevention Research Centre, calls for a little calm on the matter, and says it’s unhelpful to demonise sugar like this. Of course too much is bad for you, he says in a rebuttal to Dr Lustig’s book, that’s what excess means. Anything to excess is harmful. But he says there’s a reason we crave sugar, and just because we see withdrawal symptoms doesn’t mean something is bad for you. The reason drugs are addictive is because they fool the body’s natural reward system, but that reward system operates the same way for things that we need. That’s why we’ve developed it. You’d expect to see withdrawal symptoms from giving up water, but you wouldn’t conclude that we should do that. Equally, drinking water to excess can cause headaches, nausea, fatigue, vomiting and even death.

    Perhaps they’re both right – sometimes it takes a shocking exaggeration to bump us out of bad habits, so Dr Lustig’s attitude may be what we need right now. Long term, though David Katz advocates normal common sense. He still warns against processed foods with added sugars, but thinks naturally occurring sugars shouldn’t be avoided. Eat fresh, mostly plants and moderate your quantities. And that seems to be the answer to most of these ‘health scares’. Learn to recognise your unhealthy habits, and adapt to that simple rule of thumb and you can’t go far wrong.

    If you think sugar is the ultimate evil, or you just need to cut down on your intake, we can help. All our food is super fresh. We use no refined or added sugar whatsoever. So if you’re trying to wean yourself off gradually, or want to go cold turkey, we can tailor your diet plan specifically to your needs and personal taste.

    Contact us 7 days per week on 020 86269360 between 9.00am and 21.00pm or via www.totaldietfood.com
    Get our daily menus plus other food and diet based insights on our website here or via Twitter and Facebook

  • 5 Amazing Foods For Better Sex

    Adding food to the bedroom is a classic way to spice things up with a partner. But did you know that food can heighten libido and improve your performance between the sheets? We-Vibe has collated the best foodie tricks and tips for you to put to the (taste) test!

    – Figs: These small fruits pack some big benefits. They are bursting with calcium, iron, potassium, and more of that stimulating zinc. They are also packed with fibre, which boosts heart health and satisfies hunger without adding to your waistline.

    – Strawberries: Don’t forget to bring this mouth-watering dessert on your next picnic. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin B, which has been linked to high sperm counts in men. Go one step further and coat them in chocolate, as it is full of libido-boosting methylxanthines! (Why do you think it’s such a popular Valentine’s Day gift?!)

    -Almonds: These healthy nuts are said to act as a sexual stimulant and a fertility aid, so if you’re trying for a baby, start snacking! They are rich in nutrients and in several minerals that are important for sexual health and reproduction, including zinc, selenium, and vitamin E. Zinc can also help enhance sexual desire – added bonus!

    -Avocados: The name for this South American fruit derives from the Aztec language Nahuatl, in which it meant ‘testicle’ – a name chosen for the fruit’s unusual shape. It may seem like a bit of a stretch to us, but avocados do have some sexy benefits! They are rich in unsaturated fats, making them very heart-healthy. And a healthy heart keeps the blood flowing to all the right places! Men with underlying heart disease are twice as likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction, so feel free to add some extra avocado slices to your salads.
    -Eggs: Poached, scrambled or fried, eggs are sure to rev you up after a long day at work. They are full of protein, which keeps you going without packing on the calories. They’re also an excellent source of amino acids, which combat certain types of heart ailments as well as erectile dysfunction. There’s a reason Dean Martin likes his eggs with a kiss in the morning…

  • How to lose the last few KILOS

    Darren Liddy, 27, has come a long way since 2011 when he embarked on a journey to lose over 7 stone.

    He says: ‘Generally I eat healthy, but I seem to be stuck in a rut as far as losing weight/body fat is concerned.

    At the minute I weigh 227lbs, I want to get down to at least 200lbs. But I can’t shift my last 27lbs. I’ve been on my own fitness journey for a year now, I started at 294lbs and as proud as I am of what I’ve achieved so far, I’m still not happy. I need to achieve my goal of being 200lbs so I can focus on getting the body of my dreams.’

    We’ve asked expert nutritionist Robert Hodson from Nutrition Expert to help Darren reach his goal.

    My first thing to say to you would be, don’t lose heart! You have already lost 67lbs which is a fantastic achievement. I know it can be frustrating, but weight loss plateaus are normal and do happen, however diligent you are with your eating & exercise regime. However, that’s not to say that there aren’t things that you can do to help kick start the weight loss once again.

    You’ve provided me with your current weight, but I wonder whether you have had your body fat % measured? If you haven’t, I highly recommend you do, as measuring and keeping a record of this will give you a much better indicator of how you’re doing. Simply monitoring your weight does not differentiate between changes in fat, muscle and water. If you are exercising regularly you are likely to be building muscle mass, and as muscle weighs more than fat, you could be burning fat but this not always registering on the scales.

    As you lose weight, not only does it become naturally harder to lose, but your metabolism slows down too. Because of this, your daily calorie requirements become lower, so this may be a good time to revisit your portion sizes. I would recommend switching from having 3 large meals a day, to 6 smaller meals. If this seems time-consuming, one idea may be to make your lunch as usual (for example), and split it into 2 portions. Regular eating will keep your metabolism fired up, and it will also make it easier to control your portion sizes and prevent overeating, as you will never be eating when you are really hungry. It is also important that you take time over your meals. It takes 20 minutes for your stomach to start to tell the brain that it’s full, so by chewing slowly and pausing between mouthfuls you will become much more in tune with your bodies hunger signals.

    Your current diet looks well balanced, and it’s great that you are getting a good source of protein into dinner every day in the form of fish or meat. Protein is great for satiety (it keeps you full up!) and it also promotes lean muscle tissue, which is beneficial for fat burning. It would be great if you could boost your breakfast with a bit more protein, and here are a few ideas of how to do this:

    • Top your porridge with nuts and seeds (such as almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds)
    • Have an egg-based breakfast e.g. 2 poached eggs on a slice of wholemeal toast or a mushroom omelette
    • Treat yourself to a cooked breakfast at weekends- 2 eggs (scrambled or poached), 2 slices of bacon, grilled mushrooms and tomatoes

    For lunches, make sure that your salad or sandwich (always choose wholegrain bread!) includes a good source of protein in the form of lean meat, fish, eggs, beans or pulses. You can also mix this up a bit by opting for a chunky soup- most supermarkets and coffee shops do good options now. Be wary of low-fat yoghurts as they often replace the fat with added sugars (this tends to be the case with many low-fat products).

    The healthier option is to opt for natural full-fat probiotic yoghurt, with some fresh fruit.

    At dinner, fill up on vegetables (particularly the green, leafy ones- broccoli, cabbage, spinach, kale) – these should always take up at least half your plate. Try switching your potatoes for sweet potatoes, and try quinoa as a high-protein alternative to rice. Finally, good luck, and keep us posted!

    Robert Hobson is a registered nutritionist and qualified trainer for the Royal Society of Public Health. He’s over 15 years experience in consulting people or organisations in food and nutrition. He has a BSc in Human Nutrition as well as an MSc in Public Health Nutrition. He used to work for the NHS promoting healthy eating and has specialised in helping government organisations meet nutritional standards and legislation.