Trying to lose weight? Having trouble? Women often find it harder than men to shed excess pounds. In part that's because women's bodies have a tendency to "hold on" to a certain amount of fat. But in some cases the problem can be traced directly to certain habits and lifestyle traps - including many that can easily be remedied.

Being over-weight makes you conscious about how you look and at times it hurts your self-confidence. But weight is not always about how you look. Excessive weight brings with it greater risks of cancer, heart disease, premature aging and untimely health.

These problems are not small. And that is why a lot of people make efforts to lose weight. The struggle is said to be the most beautiful part of the story. What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger.

And what can be better than your struggle bearing sweet fruits? But at times women struggle a lot but their struggle brings no effects. Losing weight is an art. It has several dimensions and all of them are to be taken care of. It is one thing where hard work doesn’t pay unless accompanied with smart choices.

So if you have tried everything and still couldn’t see the desired result then lets your eyes spark with hope now. Take a look at this article to know about what you might have been doing wrong or what problems could be there and rectify it.

Here are five reasons why women might struggle to lose weight:

Wrong Eating Habits

Choosing processed food over fresh food, drinking your calories, eating things with a dearth of essential nutrients, skipping breakfasts are some major mistakes that one might make. Make sure that your plate consists of natural foods and not the processed ones.

Processed fake foods will make your body famish for essential nutrients and will give you no benefits. Develop a taste for fresh organically grown healthy fruits and vegetables. Not eating is not how you lose weight.

Eating enough and healthy is the new cool. Your breakfast should be your heaviest meal of the day. If weight loss would have been the language then breakfast would surely be the ABC’s of that language. Keep in mind that healthy breakfast is essential to enhance the metabolism.


Thyroid Trouble

Some women have trouble losing weight because of a hormonal problem. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, pumps out hormones that control body metabolism. If the gland's output isn't high enough, a condition known as hypothyroidism, the pounds can pile on - and stay on. If you think thyroid trouble might underlie your weight-loss difficulties, a doctor can test your hormone levels via a simple blood test. If you have a deficiency, effective treatment is available.

Oprah Winfery is just one of many celebrities to suffer from hypothyroidism. She wrote that the condition "slowed down my metabolism and made me want to sleep all the time. (Most people gain weight. I did! Twenty pounds!)"

Competing with Others rather than Yourself

This is the era of competition. Competition keeps you motivated, active and focussed. But the quest is to choose whom to compete with. At times you have to compete with others. But for weight loss competing with others will either give you non-existential happiness or sadness.

When it comes to weight loss, your real competition must only be you yourself. Each human is different from other. What works for one might not work for another or might work totally different from some other person.

Every time you look into the mirror, know that you love yourself. Adore the entire struggle that you’re doing now. Take pride in how far you have come and keep working harder to reach where you have to go.

You are one of a kind and very much pretty yourself. You need not look better than others. Because everyone is different and everyone is beautiful. All you need to work for is to look better than what you looked yesterday. That is how you will win the weight loss battle.

Certain Medications

Some medicines like anti-depressants, birth control pills and steroids that treat certain allergies can make you gain unwanted weight. These weight-gaining side effects of such medicines initiate within a few weeks.

If it is because of medicines that you’re gaining weight then you should probably talk to your doctors to suggest you some other alternatives. They could probably suggest you some alternatives that will help you to lose weight or at least won’t make you gain more weight.

If that is not possible then make sure you monitor your food and also the amount of exercise that you indulge in each day.

Your Medicine Is to Blame

It's true - pills can make you fat. All sorts of prescription medicines can cause weight gain, including steroids, which are commonly used to treat asthma and other inflammatory conditions, and certain antidepressants.

What to do? If you think a drug might be contributing to your weight problem, ask your doctor. If he/she can't suggest an alternative drug, you might simply have to be extra-vigilant about what you eat and how much exercise you get.

Not Understanding the Importance of Salt

It is the world known fact that many processed foods contain an immense amount of salts which is one of the reasons why they taste so good. And this is one of the reasons why people who want to lose weight, avoid processed foods.

But many people are not aware that in the case of salts, less is always more. People reduce their intake of salt thinking that it will make them lose weight but what they not know is that unnecessary curbing of salt can have negative repercussions and at times causes blood pressure and metabolic problems too. Too much salt can be dangerous but too less salt doesn’t do any good too. Make a wise choice!

Not getting Enough Sleep

Leptin and ghrelin are the hunger hormones which are affected by sleep. The dearth of proper sleep also hinders and slows down your metabolic processes and therefore it might be taking you far away from your weight loss goals.

Leptin instructs your brain to stop eating while ghrelin stimulates hunger. Improper sleep reduces leptin and increases ghrelin and thus makes you gain unwanted and undue weight.  You are also losing weight while sleeping.

While sleeping, your body is working hard to burn those calories. So for those who think that waking up is the only way to work hard, it is time to change your thoughts a bit.


Skipping Breakfast

Your metabolism is like a car. If you don't put gas in the tank, it won't run. And skipping breakfast helps ensure that your fat-burning metabolism never gets out of the driveway.

Marisa Sherry, RD, a registered dietitian in private practice in New York City, recommends eating breakfast one hour after waking up. What's on the menu she recommends to her clients? Oatmeal with berries and crushed walnuts is a great choice.

So these were some common mistakes that most of us make. Weight loss has its own intricacies that need to be understood before heading on in a direction.

You may know where you want to go and you must be working hard but if you are not aware of all the dos and don’ts then sorry to say but your journey will not make you reach your destination. So know what you’re doing and make sure you do it right. Then there is nothing that can stop you.

The pineapple diet will help you lose water weight, mobilize the stored fat, and detox your body from within. The result a fresh, toned down, glowing, and smiling you! Want to know how the proper way of incorporating the pineapple diet into your daily routine? Sure we will soon get to that, but first, let’s see how pineapple aids weight loss.

Losing weight is very important, not only to see us well in front of the mirror, but also because excess weight usually triggers other diseases such as cholesterol, heart failure, fatty liver disease or hyperuricemia, among others. In this sense, the pineapple diet is very effective when it comes to losing weight.

The pineapple diet is a thinning method that, being very low in calories, allows you to lose weight quickly. However, it must be taken into account that this diet is often misused. This is so because various diet plans propose to consume only pineapple for 3 days which does indeed help to lose weight quickly, but this does not mean that effectively.

If we consume only pineapple for three days, we will only recover the weight immediately after finishing the diet. The reason for this is that the pineapple, being a natural diuretic, causes us to get deflated, so that weight loss is not real. In addition, the drastic reduction of calories leads directly to the rebound effect that makes us recover the lost pounds.

Pineapple diet: correct way to use it

There is a correct way to use the pineapple diet to lose pounds effectively: doing it for 5 days and incorporating other foods. Because it is a low calorie diet it is very important that you do not do it for more than 5 days, do not perform strong physical activity and take at least 2 liters of water a day to keep you hydrated.

How Pineapple Aids Weight Loss

• Pineapple contains bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, that helps to reduce inflammation. Inflammation causes weight gain by rendering the weight control hormone leptin less effective.
• Pineapple improves digestion. The various enzymes and phytonutrients present in pineapple ensure proper digestion and help to cleanse the colon. This, in turn, helps shed weight and reduces bloating.
• The bromelain present in pineapple also helps in nutrient absorption, slows down bowel movement, and therefore helps to suppress appetite.
• Pineapples are rich in vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and phytonutrients. 1 cup of pineapple contains 70-80 calories, and since pineapples are juicy and filling, you don’t feel hungry for a longer time.
• Pineapple helps you to stay active and energetic as it is rich in vitamin B1. Vitamin B1 is a cofactor to the enzymatic reaction required for energy production. When you are active, you tend to accumulate fewer toxins and your metabolism keeps firing. This also contributes to weight loss.

The pineapple diet consists of doing the five meals daily but following this plan:

Breakfast : 2 slices of pineapple, a glass of low fat yogurt and half a toast of whole wheat bread.

Morning collation : 1 glass of pineapple juice.

Lunch : vegetable broth, 200 grams of chicken and 2 slices of pineapple.

Snack : 1 glass of pineapple juice, half brown bread toast and 1 egg.

Dinner : Chicken, lettuce and pineapple salad. 2 slices of pineapple as a dessert.

Follow this plan consuming the same thing for 5 days and you will notice real changes. Make sure that the pineapple is natural and not canned so that its nutrients are in full quality.


Benefits of pineapple diet to lose weight:

-Is low in calories
-It has a very powerful diuretic effect
-Helps cleanse the liver, pancreas and kidneys
-It has high levels of fiber that help to accelerate the metabolism
-Detoxifies and purifies the body
-Pineapple contains a mixture of digestive enzymes that are very effective for burning fat
-Pineapple is easy to get and prepare

Disadvantages of pineapple diet:

-It can be very monotonous
-Not suitable for people with kidney problems
-Its powerful diuretic effect can cause you to dehydrate (that’s why you need to consume lots of water)
-It can not be continued for a long time because it increases the risk of suffering from diseases due to malnutrition
-Not suitable if you need to lose many kilos

Because it is a diet with a very low calorie content, it is advisable that, once you are done, start eating healthy foods gradually and avoid the fats and processed foods so as not to fall back on the rebound effect.

In addition, we recommend that you consult your doctor before doing this diet to be sure that you can do it without problems.

Read more :

The most abundant nutrient in green chili is vitamin A, according to World's Healthiest Foods. The vitamin is a carotenoid, also known as retinol, associated with the antioxidant beta-carotene. The chili can also be ground into a powder to use for similar purposes.

Reversing skin ageing

If you eat green chilies, you don’t have to worry much about skipping sunscreen or staying outside for a bit too long because they help fight ageing of skin. There are two parts of human cells, transcription factors as they are called, that play a role in preventing cancer and keeping skin young.
UV light triggers these transcription factors and causes skin ageing. Capsaicin in chili peppers blocks the activation of nuclear transcription factors and averts skin ageing and cancer.


Reducing inflammation

Inflammation leads to puffy joints, irritated skin and redness on your body. Psoriasis, for example, is an inflammatory skin problem, marked by red, flaky skin with white scales. The skin and joint inflammation caused by it is pretty unsightly and discomforting. This inflammation is caused by Substance P, which is a neurotransmitter in our body. Capsaicin present in green chilies blocks Substance P, preventing inflammation and certain types of pain.
If you regularly have to deal with inflammation from psoriasis or arthritis, it is a good idea to add chilies to your daily diet.

Weight loss and fat burning

 If you’re trying to lose weight, you’ll have to burn fat. Green chillies can help you a lot in this. Capsaicin is a thermogenic, meaning that it increases your body’s ability to torch fat. It amps up your metabolism and the way your body uses proteins. Just by adding a few green chillies to your diet, you will find your metabolism working overtime and giving you desired results for weight loss.


Protection against cancer

Green chillies act like janitors of the body because they are a rich source of antioxidants. They help protect the body against free radicals that damage immunity, making it vulnerable to cancer.


Regulate blood sugar levels

According to studies, adding chilli peppers to your meals lowers the amount of insulin needed by your body to regulate blood sugar levels after eating. You may add chillies to your curries or rub your meats with them to add some heat. Try adding chillies to roasted vegetables or sweet potato for some adventurous cooking.


It is easy to work with chilli peppers in preparing your meals. This little effort is all it takes to get a younger, smoother skin and a healthy, slimmer body.
Chili peppers have amazingly high levels of vitamins and minerals. Just 100 g provides (in % of recommended daily allowance):

240% of vitamin-C (Ascorbic acid),
39% of vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine),
32% of vitamin A,
13% of iron,
14% of copper,
7% of potassium,
but no cholesterol.

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If you’re the only vegetarian in the group, you must be tired of answering the one question all your friends have to ask you, “So don’t you get tired of Paneer and Gobi?” or “How do you get energy if you don’t eat meat?” And if you’re a non-vegetarian food lover you may be the one asking these questions. This is and has always been an endless debate. Here are a few pros and cons of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Let’s see vegetarian vs non vegetarian diet.

Vegetarian vs Non Vegetarian Diet

In this article, we will see here vegetarian vs non vegetarian diet.

Pros of Non-Vegetarian Food

People who consume meat and its other related products have a wide range of food to choose from. They often have numerous options to pick from. They can enjoy a share of the vegetarian food ordered and at the same time indulge in all the non-vegetarian food. They are definitely in an advantageous position when food options and variety are taken into consideration.

For those who travel often, one of the primary concerns is the availability of the food they desire to have. However, in the case of non-vegetarians, this is not a big problem. They can have both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food items. It is also easier for them to adapt to different types of food.

Proper development of physical and mental strength requires an intake of appropriate amount of protein. Vegetarians have a limited choice of legumes and milk when it comes to protein rich food.

Non-vegetarians, on the other hand, have meat which in itself offers a wide range of choices. It has also been proven medically protein from animals is far better than that from plants.

Heart diseases are one of the most common diseases today. Whether it is caused due to the food or the lifestyle we follow, it cannot be ignored. This is why food rich in omega 3 fatty acids must be included in our diets. Seafood is one of the major sources of omega 3 fatty acids. This is yet another advantage non-vegetarians enjoy. Omega 3 acids have also been proven to be beneficial in preventing cancer.


Other than this, non-vegetarian food items are also a rich source of vitamin A. This, in turn, helps the brain to function properly giving it a boost.

Cons of Non-Vegetarian Food

For all those meat lovers out there, you may be surprised to know that consumption of red meat as well as processed meat has shown increased mortality rates. Too much of meat eaten may also lead to heart diseases, diabetes, kidney disorders, cancer and weight gain, as the chances are higher in this case.

Studies have shown that over a period of five years, those who consumed the highest quantity of meat have gained the most weight. This trial was held for men and women, normal-weight and overweight individuals and smokers and nonsmokers. Findings have also revealed that there is an inverse relationship between weight gain and vegetarian food like fruits, whole grains and yogurt.

According to WHO, 159 different diseases are caused by non-vegetarian foods items. Out of those, the most common ones are heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney problem, gall bladder problems, wounds in arteries, eczema, paralysis, tuberculosis, constipations and others.

Non-vegetarian food may lead to the gradual weakening of the bones and cause deterioration. However, when compared, vegetarians have stronger bones. Non-vegetarians excrete high amounts of alkaline and salts through urine. This leads to the deficiency of these salts in their blood. The blood compensates this deficiency from the bones thereby creating an imbalance. This reduces the resistance power in humans.

Non-vegetarian food produces nitrogen which acts like the poison to the nerves. According to studies around 85% of throat and intestine problems occur due to non-vegetarian food.


Cons of Vegetarian Food

Firstly and most importantly if you switch from non-veg to veg you will be consuming lesser amount of protein. This will have a great effect on your diet because protein constitutes a major and significant part of it. Protein rich food generally acts as the building blocks of the body.

In order to give your body all the benefits of amino acids, you need to include all of it in your diet. Eggs contain this which you will miss out on being a vegetarian. However, for some protein providing sources of food to have an effect on your body, they have to contain the appropriate quantity of IAAs and DAAs.

The absence of the right amount of protein in the diet will result in more time to heal wounds. It will also make your skin less healthy and lose its glow. It will become more difficult to develop muscle tissues. It will make you weaker and have an effect on digestion.

Vegetarians will by default consume more carb rich food items in order to make up for the loss in protein. This may lead to increase in body weight.


Meat is rich in fats and oil as well. Fat is essential in small quantities in one’s diet. Only a huge portion will have negative effects. It is significant for your skin, hair, joints and also helps in breaking down protein enabling better utilization. Important fatty acids like the omega 3 fatty acid are essential for brain functions. They also prevent any harm or damage that free radicals which cause cancer lead to.

Meat is also the only source of vitamin B12 excluding dirt in the ground.
Deficiency of B12 can lead to various serious issues like nerve damage, low levels of energy and problems in making use of the appropriate amount of calcium required by the body, thereby leading to osteoporosis.

Pros of Vegetarian Food

Arachidonic acid comes from animal sources and thus vegetarian diets are not high in arachidonic acid. This is beneficial, as studies have shown a link between arachidonic acid and mood disturbances. Research confirmed that mood improvement happens when eating meat, fish, and poultry is avoided.

According to research, the symptoms of Psoriasis, which is a skin disease that causes skin redness and irritation, can be reduced with a vegetarian diet, thereby helping in the cure of the disease.
Vegetarian diets help in significantly reducing diabetes. It can even reduce the possibility of its development by half.

A vegetarian diet can help in bringing down the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The diet contains antioxidant rich food items. These antioxidants help in reducing any damage caused due to oxidative stress.

The consumption of animal fat does not benefit one’s health. When this is removed from the diet, one also gets rid of the adverse effects it has on one’s body and health condition. Korean researchers have studied the effects of a vegetarian diet on a long term basis. According to their conclusion, body fat and cholesterol levels are much lower in vegetarians.


Vegetarian vs non vegetarian diet could be an endless debate that has the potential to go on. However, the fact remains that those following a non-vegetarian diet will have a much more balanced diet. This is a result of a combined intake of veg and non-veg food items. A pure vegetarian diet contains a higher proportion of folic acid, fiber, magnesium, vitamins C and vitamin E, unsaturated fat, and numerous phytochemicals. This helps vegetarians to keep their cholesterol levels low, remain thinner and fit, have a lower blood pressure and lesser risk of heart diseases when compared to others.
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Weight gain and obesity are a matter of concern for many. For some, it can be a constant battle to try to burn off the calories they take in through exercise and normal daily activities.

Genetics and hormonal fluctuations can contribute to weight gain or a person’s ability to lose weight. Other causes are inactivity, an unhealthy diet or eating habits, lack of sleep, excessive stress and certain medications. Even some medical conditions can lead to added weight.

Being overweight puts you at higher risk of developing a number of health problems, such as high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, strokes, sleep apnea, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and osteoarthritis.

A healthy diet and exercise program can help you manage your weight. At the same time, you can try some herbs to help lose weight.

1. Ginger

Ginger can be effective in promoting weight loss. A 2012 study published in the Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental journal found that ginger consumption enhances the thermic effect of food and promotes feelings of satiety. This prevents unnecessary snacking and compulsive eating of high-calorie foods.

In addition, ginger improves digestion and boosts your metabolism.

Drink 2 to 3 cups of ginger tea daily.
Chew small pieces of ginger between meals or add grated ginger to main dishes.
You can also take ginger capsules, but only after consulting your doctor.

2. Green Tea

Drink green tea to boost your metabolism and burn more calories. The antioxidant called catechins in green tea stimulate the fat-burning process.

A 2014 study at Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences found that mice fed a high-fat diet that also consumed decaffeinated green tea extract and exercised regularly experienced weight loss and significant health improvements. Researchers suggest that green tea looks promising for people who wish to lose weight.

Put 1 to 2 teaspoons of good quality green tea in a cup and pour hot water over it.
Let it steep for 2 to 3 minutes, then strain it.
Drink 3 to 4 cups of green tea throughout the day.


3. Turmeric

This herb also can help you reach your weight loss target. Curcumin, one of turmeric’s most thoroughly studied active ingredients, helps increase the flow of bile. This is important in breaking down fat.

It also improves insulin resistance as well as treats inflammatory symptoms associated with obesity and metabolic disorders.

Prepare a detox drink by mixing 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, juice from 1 lemon, a pinch of cayenne pepper and a little raw honey (for taste) in 1 cup of warm water. Drink this once daily.
You can also drink turmeric tea. To make the tea, add ½ teaspoon each of turmeric powder and dry ginger powder to 2 cups of boiling water and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Strain, add lemon juice for taste and drink it twice daily.
Another option is to take curcumin supplements after consulting a doctor.

4. Hibiscus

This beautiful herb is loaded with nutrients, flavonoids and various minerals that help lower the body’s absorption of fats and carbohydrates. This in turn aids weight management. In addition, its diuretic nature helps you shed water weight.

In a 2014 study published in the Food & Function Journal, researchers found that people who took tablets made from hibiscus extracts for 12 weeks showed reduced waist circumference, body fat percentage and hip-to-waist ratio.

You can drink 2 to 3 cups of hibiscus tea daily. To make the tea, add 2 tablespoons of dried hibiscus petals to 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and add honey and lemon juice for taste.
You can also take hibiscus in supplement form after consulting a doctor.
Note: If you are a pregnant or nursing woman or taking medication, consult your doctor before taking this herb.

5. Korean Ginseng

Korean ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng or Asian ginseng, is valued for its ability to boost energy levels and speed metabolism, which help with weight loss. In addition, it improves insulin sensitivity as well as stress management.

You can drink 2 cups of Korean ginseng tea daily. The tea is readily available in the market.
Alternatively, take 1 to 3 capsules of 500 mg Korean ginseng daily for 3 months or less.
Do not take this tea or supplement without your doctor’s permission.

Note: Avoid using Korean ginseng for extended periods. Do not use this herb if you have hormone-related conditions.


6. Dandelion

Dandelion is another useful herb for overweight people who wish to shed some pounds. The phytochemicals in dandelion give it diuretic and laxative properties. It increases the volume and frequency of urination, which helps get rid of water weight.

In addition, this herb helps normalize blood sugar, remove toxins from the body, suppress appetite and fight inflammation.

Drink a cup of dandelion tea daily prior to each meal. To make the tea, add 2 teaspoons of dried dandelion root to 1 cup of water and boil it for 1 minute. Remove from heat and steep for about 10 minutes. Strain and drink your tea.
You can also add fresh dandelion greens to salads or soups.
Avoid taking this herb for extended periods.

Note: As this herb can interact with certain medications, consult your doctor before using it.

7. Oregano

Oregano also helps you lose weight. It has an active component called carvacrol that helps dissolve fat. This herb also aids digestion and reduces bloating. In addition, it helps fight depression and stress, two common causes of overeating and weight gain.

Drink a few cups of oregano tea daily. To make the tea, steep 3 teaspoons of oregano leaves in 1 cup of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and drink it.
Alternatively, add 4 or 5 drops of oil of oregano to a glass of low-calorie fruit juice and drink it once daily.
You can also take oregano capsules with at least 70 percent carvacrol. Consult your doctor before taking this supplement.


8. Sage

Sage is another great weight-loss herb, thanks to its stimulant, diuretic and antioxidant properties. Being a stimulant, it boosts your metabolic rate to help you burn more calories. In addition, it helps reduce inflammation, treat anxiety and promote sound sleep.

Put 1 tablespoon of fresh sage leaves (or 1 teaspoon of dried sage) in a cup.
Pour boiling water in the cup, cover and steep for 5 minutes.
Strain and add lemon juice for taste.
Drink this tea 2 or 3 times daily.
Note: Do not consume sage if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

9. Peppermint

Peppermint also helps reduce weight. Being a natural appetite suppressant, it helps decrease hunger pangs and control your appetite to manage overeating and reduce intake of unnecessary calories. This herb also aids digestion and reduces bloating.

Plus, the calming, soothing scent of peppermint helps reduce stress, one of the reasons behind weight gain.

Drink a few cups of peppermint tea daily. To make the tea, steep 1 tablespoon of fresh peppermint leaves in a pot of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain, allow it to cool and drink it.
Also, put a few drops of peppermint oil on a clean handkerchief and inhale it. This will help reduce food cravings.


10. Milk Thistle

milk thistle

Milk thistle is a good herb for weight management. Its active constituent silymarin improves liver functioning to enhance your body’s natural detoxification process, which in turn promotes weight loss.

By boosting toxin removal through detoxification, this herb also helps restore metabolism and increase fat loss.

You can take milk thistle in capsule form or as a tincture. For proper dosage, consult your doctor.

Note: Seek medical advice before taking milk thistle if you have a medical condition.

Additional Tips

Start your day with a glass of lemon water.
Practice oil pulling to get rid of toxins and improve metabolism.
Drink water and other healthy fluids to help your body burn fat faster.
Soak in early morning sunlight for a few minutes daily to help your body make vitamin D. This vitamin is essential for weight loss.
Start your day with a healthy breakfast.
Eat smaller meals (healthy foods) 4 or 5 times throughout the day instead of 2 large meals.
Eat healthy snacks between meals.
Enjoy regular exercise and play some sports on weekends.
Avoid stress as it can cause weight gain.
Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can increase your appetite and lead to weight gain.
Stay away from cigarettes, alcohol, refined sugars and saturated fats.

Most women should gain somewhere between 25 and 35 pounds (11.5 to 16 kilograms) during pregnancy. Most will gain 2 to 4 pounds (1 to 2 kilograms) during the first trimester, and then 1 pound (.5 kilogram) a week for the rest of the pregnancy. The amount of weight gain depends on your situation.

Overweight women need to gain less (15 to 20 pounds or 7 to 9 kilograms or less, depending on their pre-pregnancy weight).
Underweight women will need to gain more (28 to 40 pounds or 13 to 18 kilograms).
You should gain more weight if you are having more than 1 baby. Women having twins need to gain 37 to 54 pounds (16.5 to 24.5 kilograms).
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet, along with exercise, is the basis for a healthy pregnancy. For most pregnant women, the right amount of calories is:

1,800 calories per day in the 1st trimester
2,200 calories per day in the 2nd trimester
2,400 calories per day in the 3rd trimester
Proper pregnancy nutrition can be hard to maintain when you're constantly feeling hungry, craving "bad" foods and "eating for two." But many healthy foods can fulfill those pesky cravings and help you control weight gain during pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy diet and knowing what to eat and what not to eat during pregnancy are important not only to avoid excessive weight gain but also because what you eat affects the overall health of you and your baby.

"As moms-to-be embark on this exciting phase of their lives and bring a new life into the world, your health and managing a healthy weight gain during pregnancy is of the utmost importance," says Dr. Liz Applegate, nationally renowned nutrition and fitness expert. "Research reveals that excessive weight gain can set the stage for weight struggles for mom persisting well beyond 'baby years.'"

Weight gain during pregnancy is different for every mom, but the optimal amount of weight gain for women who have a healthy body mass index — defined as between 18.5 and 24.9 — is 25 to 35 pounds. If a woman starts out underweight, the amount of gain should be more; if she is overweight, the amount should be less.


A common misconception about eating while pregnant stems from the idea that a woman is "eating for two." A pregnant woman does not have to double her caloric intake and portions. Women should only consume an extra 200 to 300 calories per day — and that's only during the second and third trimesters.

"Proper weight gain promotes normal development of the developing baby," Applegate says. "Being overweight or obese during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes, problems with blood pressure and complications with delivery, such as preterm birth."

Managing sweet cravings

Sweet cravings are common during pregnancy because of changes in hormonal levels, and research shows that women with gestational diabetes experience more intense cravings.

"Incorporating low- and no-calorie sweeteners is a safe and helpful way to satisfy sweet desires without unwanted calories," Applegate says.

The FDA has deemed some low- or zero-calorie sweeteners, including sucralose (Splenda), aspartame (Equal), saccharin (Sweet'N Low), and stevia (Truvia), safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Applegate recommends using one of these sweeteners in iced tea or a sugar-free yogurt topped with berries, which includes calcium, vitamin C and other nutrients.

Caffeine

Approximately 200 milligrams or less of caffiene is safe to consume daily, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. This is equivalent to a 12-ounce brewed coffee or four cans of Diet Coke.

"A mom-to-be can feel comfortable about enjoying this moderate amount of caffeine during the day but should avoid caffeine intake later in the day so as not to disrupt sleeping," Applegate says.

Exercise

Another key aspect of staying healthy during pregnancy is exercise. The goal for all adults, whether they are pregnant or not, is 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise. The most important thing to remember is that you can continue with the same level of activity you performed before becoming pregnant, but pay attention to what your body is telling you.

"Women who are very athletic, such as serious runners and dancers, can continue with their activities, but should modify according to how they feel," Applegate says. "Any cramping, dizziness or nausea should signal a woman to slow down or stop the activity." Contact sports, though, should be avoided.

Seafood during pregnancy

Another misconception is that pregnant women should steer clear from fish and seafood because of mercury, a metal contaminant found in fish. However, Applegate believes you should view fish as a "critical part" of your pregnancy diet.

Fish supplies omega-3 fats, which are essential for brain and eye development in babies, improve heart health, and possibly reduce anxiety and depression for moms.

The USDA Diet Guidelines and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that pregnant and breastfeeding women consume at least 8 to 12 ounces of fish per week.

"The best fish and seafood to consume are salmon, shrimp, catfish, pollock and canned fish, such as light tuna and wild-caught salmon. [They] can provide a convenient option," Applegate says. "Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid four exotic fish: shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish, which are not commonly eaten or available in the U.S., as these fish tend to contain higher amounts of mercury."

Dangerous foods during pregnancy

Foods that present risk for food-borne illness, such as raw seafood, sprouts and certain dairy and meats, should not be consumed. When consuming dairy, Applegate advises to check the label to make sure the items are made with pasteurized milk and milk products.

"Soft cheeses, such as Brie, Camembert and Mexican-style cheeses, are typically unpasteurized and may pose a risk for food-borne illness called listeriosis," Applegate says. "Pregnant women are more susceptible to this form of food-borne illness than the general population. This illness may result in miscarriage and premature delivery."

Some everyday foods with a risk for bacterial contamination and listeriosis include meats such as hot dogs and cold cuts; eggs; raw seafood; and sprouts.

Eating healthy during pregnancy also makes for an easier weight-loss journey after delivery. Maintaining a proper diet doesn't have to stop after your baby is born.

"Your eating habits during pregnancy and after childbirth set the stage for your new baby and family," Applegate says. "Establishing healthy eating patterns now will benefit all your loved ones."


Some women are already overweight when they get pregnant. Other women gain weight too quickly during their pregnancy. Either way, a pregnant woman should not go on a diet or try to lose weight during pregnancy.

It is better to focus on eating the right foods and staying active. If you do not gain enough weight during pregnancy, you and your baby may have problems.

Still, you can make changes in your diet to get the nutrients you need without gaining too much weight. Talk to your health care provider to get help with planning a healthy diet.

Below are some healthy eating tips to help you get started.

Healthy choices:

Fresh fruits and vegetables make good snacks. They are full of vitamins and low in calories and fat.
Eat breads, crackers, and cereals made with whole grains.
Choose reduced-fat dairy products. You need at least 4 servings of milk products every day. However, using skim, 1%, or 2% milk will greatly reduce the amount of calories and fat you eat. Also choose low-fat or fat-free cheese or yogurt.

Foods to avoid:

Naturally sweetened is better than foods and drinks with added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Food and drinks that list sugar or corn syrup as one of the first ingredients are not good choices.
Many sweetened drinks are high in calories. Read the label and watch out for drinks that are high in sugar. Substitute water for sodas and fruit drinks.
Avoid junk-food snacks, such as chips, candy, cake, cookies, and ice cream. The best way to keep from eating junk food or other unhealthy snacks is to not have these foods in your house.
Go light on fats. Fats include cooking oils, margarine, butter, gravy, sauces, mayonnaise, regular salad dressings, lard, sour cream, and cream cheese. Try the lower-fat versions of these foods.

Eating out:

Knowing the amount of calories, fat, and salt in your food can help you eat healthier.
Most restaurants have menus and nutrition facts on their websites. Use these to plan ahead.
In general, eat at places that offer salads, soups, and vegetables.
Avoid fast food.

Cooking at home:

Prepare meals using low-fat cooking methods.
Frying foods in oil or butter will increase the calories and fat of the meal.
Baking, broiling, grilling, or boiling are healthier, lower-fat methods of cooking.

Exercise:

Moderate exercise, as recommended by your provider, can help burn extra calories.
Walking or swimming are generally safe, effective exercises for pregnant women.
Be sure to talk to your provider before starting an exercise program.

Body Image During Pregnancy

If you have struggled with your weight in the past, it may be hard to accept that it is ok to gain weight now. It is normal to feel anxious as the numbers on the scale edge up.

Keep in mind that you need to gain weight for a healthy pregnancy. The extra pounds will come off after you have had your baby. However, if you gain a lot more weight than is recommended, your baby will also be bigger. That can sometimes lead to problems with delivery. A healthy diet and regular exercise are your best ways to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Struggling to stick with your diet program? You aren’t alone. Millions of people worldwide start up and fall off diet programs every day. Why is it so hard to stick with something? Why they can’t carry out a plan once and for all?

Often, it’s due to a few key mistakes they’re making along the way. Let’s take a closer look at three secrets that you need to know about sticking with a diet program. When you put these secrets into action, you’ll find it’s easier than ever to get the results that you are looking for.

Get A Diet Buddy

One word of advice: don’t go at it alone. Those who get a diet buddy to do a diet and experience the high’s and low’s with them tend to stand a much better chance of seeing success in the long run.

If you can’t convince someone to do the diet with you, at the very least, find someone who will stand by your side and be there for support when you need it.

You will hit a hard time, and during that hard time, it can really help if you have someone there to encourage you through it.

Use Hunger-Busting Strategies

Hunger is another reason why many people can’t stick with a fat loss diet plan. Either they are cutting their calories back too far, thereby causing the hunger, or they are not eating foods that encourage satiety.

You want to focus your diet around foods that break down and digest slowly. Lean proteins coupled with fibrous carbohydrates are the best choices, followed closely by small doses of dietary fat.

While the calories in fat do add up quickly, a small amount added to your diet can work wonders to help you better control hunger.

Set Short Term Goals

Finally, consider setting some short term goals. Think about what it is that you want to accomplish within the next two or three weeks. Far too many people have a long term view of what they hope to achieve in a year’s time, but it’s too easy to lose sight of that light at the end of the tunnel.

Instead, focus on the here and now. Find a program such as The 3 Week Diet that has you focusing on the coming weeks ahead. Build good habits in those three weeks and you will be well set up for the future months.

Remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you won’t lose all the weight you have to lose in just a week. Be patient, but at the same time, don’t fixate too far in the future. Otherwise, you’ll just lose motivation and give up.

Want to learn more about how to make the 3 week concept work for you? Check out The 3 Week Diet plan, which teaches you how to build proper habits over the course of three weeks that result in great weight loss and set you up for a future of weight loss and maintenance.

>> Learn how to lose up to 21 pounds in just 21 days <<

If you are trying to lose excess weight and maintain the body figure, you should know that there are some foods which will be of great help, and will not lead to weight gain.

These foods are also high in fiber, but low in calories, so they will keep you full long, without contributing to the accumulation of fat in the body.

Always make sure your diet is well-balanced, and we recommend the following 15 foods, that should be present in your daily menu:

Celery – Celery stems contain 95% water, so they detoxify the body and accelerate the weight loss process.

Apples and plums – The consumption of an apple helps digestion, and keeps you full for long. Apples are high in vitamin C and potassium, and an apple contains only 50 kcal. Plums are also rich in nutrients and help you lose weight.

Oranges, tangerines, and grapefruits – Citrus fruits are high in vitamin C and flavonoids, helps digestion, promote the health of the liver and skin, and help weight loss.

Eggs – You can eat as many boiled eggs as you want, and still not gain weight.

Melon and watermelon – A slice of these fruits contains 60 to 70 calories, but it detoxifies the body, leads to satiety, and removes excess fluids.

Cucumber – Cucumbers are excellent if you want to lose weight, as they help you burn calories and reduce bloating.

Cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli –These vegetables are rich in nutrients which interact with iodine and make sure you consume them twice a week.

Eggplant – You can eat as much baked or grilled eggplant, as a portion of eggplant free of oil contains only 24 kcal.

Salad – Salads are high in folic acid. For instance, a lettuce leaf contains only 3 kcal, so you can eat as much as you want without gaining weight.

Strawberry, cranberry – These fruits are rich in vitamin C, and eliminate the accumulated fluids from the body. Strawberries also boost digestion and promote heart health.

Pineapple – Pineapples split fats and aid the metabolism of protein, due to the bromelain they contain.

Zucchini – Zucchini help the function of the intestines and are low in calories, so they are great for losing extra pounds. A portion of zucchini contains only 42 kcal.

Popcorn – Prepare popcorn without any butter or sugar, and you can have as much as you want. A cup of popcorn free of sugar and butter contains only 31 kcal.

Algae – Algae are high in iodine, so they normalize the function of the thyroid and prevent weight gain.

15. Beetroot – An average portion of this vegetable has only 40 kcal, but it is a rich source of nutrients, like manganese, which burns calorie and regulates blood sugar levels.

>> Learn how to lose up to 21 pounds in just 21 days <<

Wondering why you just cannot see success with your diet plan? Do you feel like every diet you go on, you eventually fall off somewhere along the line?

Are you ready to toss in the towel on fat loss for good?

Unrealistic Calorie Intakes

The first big reason why most diets fail is because they simply have you striving to take in an unrealistic number of calories each day. In other words, they put you into “starvation mode”. They are causing you to consume so little food that your body literally starts shutting down to conserve fuel.

When it does this, you know that you are on a one-way path to a fat loss plateau. Yes, you do need to lower your calorie intake to see fat loss results, but you need to do so wisely in a way that you can maintain your “metabolic engine”, so to speak.

Lack Of Satiety-Boosting Nutrients

Next, another big issue with most conventional diets is they aren’t providing you enough of the two most satisfying nutrients: protein and fiber. You need protein to function optimally. It’s also the nutrient that’s the slowest to break down and digest in the body, so it will provide immediate satiety.

Couple that with dietary fiber, which is found in fresh fruits and vegetables, and it’ll slow digestion even further.

Many crash diet plans are very low in protein, and while they do have you eating lots of vegetables, many discourage the consumption of fruit.

By making these two nutrients a focus of your plan instead, you can see results that much faster and enjoy being on the diet while you do.

Time Consuming Meal Prep

Long-Term Approach

If you’re a woman on a mission to burn fat, there’s a good chance you are making one or two (or more) mistakes along the way. I see it time and time again and yet, few women ever actually crack the weight loss code.

It really doesn’t need to be as complicated as it seems. By learning what these mistakes are, you can quickly put them behind you and get on track to seeing better results.

Let’s look at four fat loss mistakes you need to know about.

Starvation Diets

If 1400 calories is good, 1000 must be better, right? Wrong. Your body needs fuel to burn fat properly. As strange as it may sound, if you cut your calories back too far, your body will just cling onto what fat it does have, making further fat loss feel impossible.

You want to use a moderate calorie deficit, like the guidelines set forth in the 3 Week Diet plan as this will ensure that your metabolism stays revved and you keep burning fat.

Failing To Plan Ahead

Another big mistake many women make is failing to plan ahead. They think about their next meal about an hour before that meal takes place. Often, this is because they’re busy and just don’t have time to do all that cooking.

If you want to see results, however, you need to plan ahead. The trick is using a weight loss program that doesn’t call for overly complex meals that mean you spend hours each day in the kitchen.

No woman can handle that — you have a life to lead. But, with a diet plan that makes planning ahead simple, you will stand a much better chance of sticking with your menu. You should never wonder ‘what to eat’ when hunger hits or you’ll be tempted to eat something you shouldn’t.

Overdoing Cardio Training

If there’s one thing that most women have in common, it’s hours spent on cardio machines. While some smart cardio training (such as sprint training) can be beneficial for fat loss, you really don’t need to chain  yourself to the treadmill, bike, or the elliptical. In fact, doing so can do more harm than good.

Instead, what you need is a basic weight training program that focuses on key lifts that make you stronger.

Check out The 3 Week Diet workout program if you need assistance in this area. This program will go over the top calorie burning exercises that will firm and tighten your body while helping you melt fat quickly.

Overcomplicating The Process

Finally, the last big mistake that many women make is overcomplicating their program. They find a diet plan that has a million rules and regulations that they must follow and then wonder why they aren’t sticking with it and it’s not working.

Simplicity is best. With a few smart guidelines that you can easily implement into your life, you can be on track to seeing superior results.

>>Learn How to lose 21 pounds in just 21 days<<

Having trouble deciding what to have for breakfast? You certainly want something that will kick-start the organism, give you health benefits and keep you energized throughout the day.
Well, we have the answer for you!

The following breakfast recipe is so amazing, it can actually regulate the blood sugar levels, lower the cholesterol and get rid of the stomach fats.

As you know, breakfast is one of the healthiest meals of the day. It is not wise to skip it ever, so make sure you eat right each and every morning.

Chia seeds and oats breakfast may just be the match made in heaven for you. Both ingredients are super healthy and give the metabolism and immunity a boost it needs to go through the entire day.

Aside from this, they provide weight loss properties, and can melt the belly fat and excess fat stuck in the body.

Oatmeal is full of beta-glucan soluble fiber, a compound that can balance the blood sugar levels, lower the bad cholesterol and strengthen the heart.

Plus, it offers a decent content of protein, fiber and minerals.

On the other hand, chia seeds provide omega 3 and omega 6 in large doses and have more calcium than milk and other dairy products. Again, chia seeds can help the heart work properly and give out plenty of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Chia seeds are recommended for people suffering from arthritis and can lower the cholesterol as well.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup oats
2 cups water
2 teaspoons vanilla powder
1 tsp cinnamon powder
2 tablespoons honey
1 pinch sea salt
4 tablespoons of chia seeds

Directions:

In a pot, add water, cinnamon and vanilla. Bring it to boil and then reduce heat and throw in oats. Again, let mix boil for 5 minutes and set aside. Cover and leave for 5 minutes to rest.

Finally, add honey and salt. Sir well and pour mix in a bowl. Add chia seeds at last, while the breakfast is still hot.

 >> LEARN HOW TO LOSE UP TO 21 POUNDS IN JUST 21 DAYS!!!<<

Have a blast!

Here is a list of healthy tea recipes that contain the goodness of health benefiting herbs, botanical and fruits. Here we have listed quite a few green tea hot and cold recipes that are extremely refreshing and delicious.

Iced Lavender Green Tea

This is a low-calorie drink, and the fresh lavender blossoms give a subtle flavor to the sugar-free tea. Lavender is also one of the best natural remedies for hair loss, so regular drinking of Lavender Green Tea can prevent hair fall. You can easily get lavender blossoms from natural food stores and is simple to make.

Ingredients:

Dried Lavender  Blossoms (Fresh) – 11/2 tsp
Tea bags- 4
Sprig Lavender (Optional)- 1

Procedure:

Heat ½ cup of water in a saucepan until it gets simmer. Remove the pan from heat and add tea and lavender to the heated water. Steep for about 5 minutes, strain it into a bowl and let it cool for some time. Now, pour the prepared tea in ice filled glasses and season it with some lavender sprigs to make it more appealing.


Green Tea Kiwi and Mango Smoothie

This is one of the delicious smoothie recipes with kiwi prepared by mashing your favorite fruits kiwi and mangoes and you are ready to enjoy a tasty drink.

Ingredients:                    

Diced Mango (frozen)- 2 ½ cups
Fat Free Vanilla Yogurt- ¾ cup
Honey- ¼ cup
Lime Rind (grated)- ½ tsp
Ripe Kiwifruit (peeled and quartered)- 3
Baby Spinach (packed)- ½ cup
Bottled Green Tea- 2 tbsp
Water- 2 tbsp
Ice Cubes- 2 cups


Procedure:

In a blender place mango, ½ cup yogurt, water, lime rind, 2 tbsp of honey and process the mixture until smooth and stir it occasionally. Now, drop the mixture into four different glasses and place it in the freezer.

Rinse blender container and place ¼ cup yogurt, 2 tbsp honey, kiwifruit, baby spinach and the remaining ingredients in a blender, and repeat the same procedure. Gently spoon this green- tea mixture onto the mango mixture and garnish the drink with kiwi fruit slices. You can stir the combination to combine two different flavors. Serve the drink immediately.


Green- Tea Cranberry Spritzer

Eating fruits and vegetables to lose weight is by far the best option and what better way to do so than with a combination of green tea and refreshing cranberries.  Planning for some party in your circles? Then you must try out this refreshing cranberry spritzer. Nothing beats spritzer in welcoming guests to host an outdoor party.

Ingredients:

Green Tea Bags- 4
Cranberry juice- ½ cup
Seltzer (Chilled)- 3 cups
Sugar- 1/3 cup
Water- 1/3 cup

Procedure:

Heat water in a saucepan and add sugar to this boiled water. Stir it until the sugar completely dissolves. After it gets completely cooled steep the tea bags in 2 cups of boiling water for 2 minutes. Remove bags and cool it completely. Add Cranberry juice and divide the tea in four different ice- filled glasses. Top it with chilled seltzer and is now ready to serve.


Green Tea, Almond and Blue Berry Smoothie

This smoothie contains all the ingredients that boost up your metabolism and burn the fat off your waist. The benefits of almonds and almond milk for skin and weight management are well known. This smoothie is just yummy and satisfying to all the smoothie lovers out there.


Ingredients:

Green Tea Bags- 2
Blueberries (fresh)- 2 cups
Fat Free Vanilla Yogurt- 12 ozs
Almonds (dry, roasted, unsalted) – 2 tbsp
Flax seeds- 2 tbsp
Water- ¾ cups
Ice Cubes- 3

Procedure:

Bring water to boil, pour over tea bags and steep for about 4 minutes. Squeeze and remove tea bags, chill the tea overnight. If using fresh blueberries, you need to place it in the freezer overnight. Place all the ingredients in a blender, process until smooth and divide the smoothie in ice-filled glasses.


Iced Green Tea

This is a simple low-calorie recipe that leaves you refreshing, chilled and it lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s and diabetes. Green tea in pure form is one of the best home remedies to boost metabolism. The flavor of this recipe invigorates you as soon as you just sip it.

Ingredients:

Green Tea Bags – 6 to 8
Boiling water – 4 cups
Cold water – 2 cups
Artificial sweetener (non- caloric) – ½ cup

Procedure:

Pour boiling water into a saucepan over the tea bags and steep for about 5 minutes. Squeezing gently, remove tea bags from the water. Add sweetener to cold water and stir for 2 minutes until the sweetener dissolves. Let the tea come to room temperature and is now ready to serve.


Lemon Grass and Ginger Iced Tea

Lemon zinger tea health benefits are well known to all of us. With its subtle flavor lemon grass and ginger iced tea is a perfect drink for every tea lover. With low caffeine levels and antioxidants present in this tea makes you feel energized all day long.

Ingredients:

Fresh Lemon Grass – 1 stalk
Fresh Ginger – 7 slices
Green Tea – 5 bags
Sugar – ½ cup

Procedure:

Rinse the lemon grass thoroughly, cut into 2-inch lengths and crush it with a large knife. Bring 2 cups of water, ginger, lemongrass and sugar to boil in a saucepan. Take off the pan from heat, add green tea bags and steep the tea for about 5 minutes.

Remove the tea bags if you think the flavor is strong and let the tea cool for about 30 minutes. Pour the tea into a pitcher through a fine strainer. Cover the tea and keep it chilled until cold for at least 2 hours and divide the tea into four different ice-filled glasses.


Rose Petal Tea

If you are more into aromatic teas, then the rose petal tea is the ideal beverage for you. This exotic green tea recipe for weight loss helps you burn calories in a healthy and tasty way. Enjoy the exotic taste of rose petal tea and beat the summer heat.

Ingredients:

Oranges – 1
Green Tea Leaves – 1 tsp
Dried and Crumbled Rose and Hibiscus Petals – 1 tsp

Procedure:

Use a vegetable peeler to peel the rind from the orange, but avoid the pith. Now, let the rinds dry at room temperature for 1 day and then grind them finely. In cup add the rind, green tea leaves and the flower petals, pour boiling water from above and let the tea steep for 10 minutes, strain the tea, add artificial sweetener and freeze it for 1 hour. Sip the chilled tea.


Minty Green Tea

This is an amazingly refreshing and delicious green tea recipe for weight loss that uses the goodness of mint. The refreshing flavours of mint provide satiety and prevent hunger cravings. The benefits of mint leaves and mint oil for hair and skin are well known. It also helps in speeding up digestion and fat burn in the body. In addition, this drink contains merely 9 calories, which makes it much healthier than soda.

Ingredients:

Fresh mint leaves – 1/2 cup
Green tea bags – 2
Honey – 1 tsp

Procedure:

Add the washed and chopped mint leaves in a tall glass, add the tea bags and pour boiling water over the top. Now, keep the glass in a fridge for 3 to 4 hours. Remove the tea bags using a spoon, add the honey and mix well, add some crushed ice from the top and serve with a straw.


Tulsi Green Tea

This is by far the best green tea for health that contains the goodness of tulsi leaves that makes it a rich source of antioxidants that neutralize the damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. This tea is also effective in guarding against cough and cold and effective elimination of toxins.

Ingredients:

Tulsi Leaves – 8 to 10
Green tea bags – 1
Honey – 1 tsp

Procedure:

Wash and chop the tulsi leaves roughly, add the tulsi leaves and the green tea bag in a cup. Pour warm water into the cup, cover it with a saucer and let it steep for 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the saucer, take out the tea bag, add the honey, mix well and enjoy it warm or cold.


Raspberry Green Tea

Raspberries are considered the best fruits for juicing weight loss. This brightly coloured and fruity green tea is loaded with the antioxidant benefits of juicy red raspberries. Xylitol found in raspberries is a low-calorie sugar substitute so that even diabetics can enjoy the drink without adding sugar to the drink. It is also a rich source of vitamins A, C and E.

Ingredients:

Raspberries – 1 Cup
Green tea bags – 2
Granulated sugar – 1 tsp (optional)

Procedure:

Heat some water in a pan and pour it into a cup. Add the green tea bags to it and let them steep for 5 minutes and then discard the bags. In a large saucepan, heat 1 cup of water, add the raspberries and sugar to it and boil it on medium heat letting it simmer until the raspberries break up. Add the raspberries mixture to the tea, let it cool down, keep it in a fridge for 1 hour, strain it and enjoy chilled.


Melon and Green Tea Drink

The appetizing and refreshing aroma of melons dissolve with the goodness of green tea to make it one of the best cold tea recipes that combine both taste and health. Melons are well known for its weight loss properties which make it an amazing and effective green tea for losing weight. It is one of the delicious anti aging fruits for youthful and lively skin.

Ingredients:

Green tea bags – 2
Melon – 1/2 cup
Chopped mint leaves – 4 tsp
Granulated Sugar – 2 tsp

Procedure:

Heat a cup of water in a pan, steep the green tea bags in the water; wait for 5 minutes and discard the tea bags. Heat another cup of water in a deep bottomed sauce pan, add the mint leaves, melon and sugar to it, cook the melons over medium heat till they become tender. Pour the tea and this melon mixture into a tall glass, mix well and freeze it for 2 hours. Strain the drink and enjoy chilled.


Peach White Tea

This fruity and refreshing tea contains the goodness of peaches that helps in relieving stress and anxiety. It is also one of the best fruits for glowing skin. Therefore, peaches are often known as the “Fruit of Calmness”. Being a rich source of phytochemicals, it helps in fighting obesity related diabetes and heart diseases. This can be marked as the best green tea for weight loss without any doubt.

Ingredients:

Green tea bags – 2
Sliced and peeled peaches – 1 cup
Granulated Sugar – 2 tsp

Procedure:

Steep the green tea bags in a cup of warm water for 5 minutes and then discard the bags. In a large saucepan, heat a cup of water and add the peach slices and granulated sugar to it. Cook the peaches by stirring continuously for about 10 to 12 minutes, keeping on a low flame. Pour the tea and peaches mix in a tall glass. Refrigerate it for 1 hour, strain the drink and serve it with ice cubes.

You can buy some amazing green tea bags from the below sources.

Bigelow Organic Green Tea
Newman’s OwnOrganics Royal Tea
Starwest Botanicals Organic Gunpowder Green Tea
Stash Tea Company Organic Premium Green Tea
Organic Green Tea Leaves
And if you are seeking some quick help in losing weight, then check this amazing resource to lose weight via green tea to get 100% results. All these green tea recipes follow almost the same preparation method except that there is variation in the ingredients you use.

All the ingredients are low in calorific value, rich in antioxidants, boost your metabolism and thus eventually help in reducing your body fat and thus add up to your weight- loss plan. Share your favourite smoothie recipes via comments section that helped in losing your body weight.

Feel like you’re doing everything right on your diet plan but still not seeing the results you desire?

Many people find themselves in this position. They are working hard on their approach and taking care to follow their diet to the letter. But yet, something is amiss. The scale just isn’t going downward and they aren’t getting the results they were hoping for.

What gives?

Often, the big problem is not their effort or motivation. The problem is that they are letting certain foods into their diet plan that are sabotaging their results. Often these foods are designed to be fat loss foods but they really aren’t. Instead, they’re holding you back from success.

What are these foods? Let’s go over three foods that you need to cut out of your diet immediately.

Fruit Flavored Yogurts

Fruit flavored yogurts are a favorite among many dieters but little do they know they’re digging into pint-sized sugar bombs each time they eat a small container.

Next time you’re picking out your favorite yogurt, double check the sugar content. You might just find yourself surprised to know there are 15 or more grams of sugar per serving.

Of course you can purchase the sugar-free varieties, but then you’ll be taking in a number of unwanted artificial sweeteners, which can be just as bad for you.

Instead, opt for plain Greek yogurt. Flavor it yourself by adding a handful of fresh berries.

Fat-Free Products

Next up on the list of foods that you want to get out of your diet plan are any products that are built to be ‘fat free’. These often state that they are fat free on the label and proud of it.

But ask yourself, if the fat is removed, what is added? Something had to be added otherwise these just wouldn’t taste good.

The answer to that is sugar. Sugar has often been added to these foods and is what is causing them to still taste appealing.

And, if you are trying to lose body fat, sugar is just as bad — if not worse — than fat is.

Protein Bars

Finally, the last of the foods that you need to be careful about including in your diet plan are protein bars. These may seem like a great option since they do contain protein and you’re probably trying to get more protein into your day.

But once again, you need to check that sugar content. Most protein bars are upwards of 15 grams of sugar or more per bar. Some measure in as high as 30 or even 40 grams of sugar depending on the calorie content.

In actuality, these aren’t much more than a glorified chocolate bar. While you can buy a few bars that do keep the sugar content very low (five grams or less per bar), you do need to search for those. Be careful about buying these bars.

So there are three foods that you may be currently eating that could be causing you some issues. Are any of these in your diet?

If you want to learn the two must-eat foods that will help catapult fat loss into high gear, make sure that you check out The 3 Week Diet which goes over the harmful and helpful foods for weight loss.