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    10 Reasons Why You’re Lifting Weights But Not Losing Weight, According To Experts

    Lifting weights is one of the best ways to build muscle and transform your body. While there are many benefits of strength training that don’t involve changing your body composition, experts often recommend weight training for weight loss. But what if you’re lifting weights but not losing weight? It can be frustrating to not see results right away, but a little stagnation doesn’t mean you should start skipping your weight-lifting sessions just yet.“Strength training can help you build lean muscle, which in turn improves your metabolism,” says physician Dr Amy Lee, chief medical advisor for Lindora. “A better metabolism means more fat and calories burned, helping you lose weight.” But keep in mind that a variety of other factors can impact your ability to lose weight, like nutrition, lifestyle habits and genetics. If you’re weight lifting regularly but aren’t seeing much progress on the scale, it’s natural to feel defeated. However, this doesn’t mean you should ditch strength training altogether. Here are the potential reasons you’re lifting weights but not losing weight – and what to do about it, according to trainers and dieticians.READ MORE: “This Is How I Conquered Perimenopause Symptoms And Lost 14KG”Meet the experts: Dr Amy Lee, is a physician specialising in medical nutrition and obesity medicine and is the chief medical advisor for Lindora. Jessica Cording, is anutritionist and author of The Little Book of Game Changers. Albert Matheny, is the co-founder of SoHo Strength Lab and CEO of Promix Nutrition. Kimberly Gomer, is a dietician in private practice and nutrition expert at Consumer Health Digest. Avery Zenker, is a dietician at Everflex Fitness.10 Reasons You’re Lifting Weights But Not Losing Weight1. You’re gaining more muscle mass.Which, to be clear, is a good thing! The more you lift, the more muscle you build. But sometimes, that new muscle mass means that the number on the scale remains the same (or even increases). “Lifting weights helps build muscle, which is denser and weighs more than fat,” says Avery Zenker, a dietician at Everflex Fitness. “This means that you can lose fat, but your overall weight on the scale might not decrease significantly because muscle adds weight,” she says. Any weight gain from muscle shouldn’t discourage you from working out, though – after all, resistance training has been shown to have positive effects on women’s body composition, overall strength and more.2. You’re not eating a balanced diet.It’s no secret that when it comes to losing weight, following a healthy, balanced diet plan is key. “Strength training – while being awesome for body composition and metabolism – isn’t going to result in weight loss if diet is ignored,” says Miami-based dietician Kimberly Gomer. While you don’t have to follow a super-strict diet regimen in order to lose weight, there are many options out there like the Pritikin Diet, Whole30, and the Mediterranean Diet that may help you prioritise nourishing, well-rounded meals that will also support your workout routine. Try to focus on nutrient-dense whole foods you enjoy, Zenker says. This includes a balance of protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, fruits and veggies. If you’re in the gym consistently, try adding some healthy protein bars or weight loss-friendly smoothie recipes to your routine so you can stay energized and fueled for every rep.3. You could use more protein.Consuming more protein is all the rage these days, and for good reason. “Protein is important for muscle repair and growth, and it also helps keep you feeling satiated through the day,” Zenker says. “Insufficient protein intake can hinder muscle recovery and reduce the effectiveness of your workouts.” High-protein diets may also help with weight loss, research shows. This is because consuming protein decreases ghrelin levels (the hormone that signals it’s time to eat), so you don’t feel the impulse to overeat – which, over time, prevents excess weight gain.There’s no magic amount of protein your body needs to lose weight, and you should always chat with your doctor before aiming for a specific number in your diet, Zenker says. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) has long held that adults need 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of total body weight, but this is considered the bare minimum. If you’re lifting weights on the reg, you likely need more on a daily basis – closer to 1.8 grams per kilogram of body weight for long-term health outcomes, per a 2016 study published in Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism. That said, some experts recommend even higher protein intake, especially if you tend to be very active. To be safe, always talk to your doctor first to determine the optimal amount of protein for you.READ MORE: What You Really Need To Know About Running For Weight Loss, According To Experts4. Alcohol could be hindering your success.Alcohol can be a sneaky source of empty calories that work against your weight loss efforts, says Albert Matheny, a registered dietician, certified strength and conditioning specialist, co-founder of SoHo Strength Lab and CEO of Promix Nutrition. If you tend to drink more than one alcoholic beverage at a time, you run the risk of having elevated cortisol levels, hindered reaction time or even decreased ability to work out as intensely – so you may not be getting in as meaningful of strength training sessions as you think if you’re drinking regularly, he says. The best way to cut excess calories and make progress toward your weight loss goals is to stop drinking, Matheny says. But, if that doesn’t feel feasible for you, try changing up your drinking habits by sticking to just one drink once or twice a week, for example, or switching to low-calorie alcoholic drinks like vodka and soda while avoiding sugary cocktails like margaritas and piña coladas. The 2020-2025 U.S. Dietary Guidelines state that for adults who choose to drink, women should have one drink or less in a day.5. Your exercise is too low-intensity. There’s nothing wrong with low-intensity movement, but if your workout routine is too gentle, it may not be helping you lose weight in the long run. “With 99 percent of strength training exercises, you should feel cardiovascularly challenged,” says Matheny. Although intensity can be hard to measure, keeping tabs on how you feel after you work out will usually clue you into whether your routine needs a tune-up. “If you don’t feel like you’re fatigued afterward, you’re probably not training hard enough,” he says. If you’ve been a little stagnant lately, try adding five to 10 more reps to each exercise in your routine or start lifting heavier weights until your workouts feel more challenging, Matheny says. It may also help to add a bit of cardio into your weekly routine. You can also ask a certified personal trainer for pointers – chances are, they can help you find a sweet spot that will best support your goals.6. Your habits are inconsistent. Consistency is key in achieving any wellness goal, and if you’re inconsistent with your workouts and habits, it could be deterring your weight loss progress, says Dr. Lee. “Don’t strength train once during week one of your journey, then five times the next, and two times the next,” she says. “Have a set schedule, a well thought-out plan or program and maintain your healthy habits.” Forming meaningful habits – like eating a balanced diet, drinking enough water or strength training regularly – and being consistent with them on a daily and weekly basis will help you optimise your journey with weight management, she says. READ MORE: Slower Walks Boost Weight Loss In Women Over 50, Recent Study Finds: Here’s Why7. You might be snacking too much.“Strength training has a way of making you feel very hungry,” says dietician Jessica Cording, registered dietician and author of The Little Book of Game Changers. This can occasionally lead to mindless snacking, which ultimately hinders your weight loss goals. If you’re not thinking ahead about how to get a balanced meal, you could end up eating tons of empty calories that aren’t nutrient-dense, Cording says.The boost in appetite can also make you overeat, Gomer says. “[It’s] no doubt that more muscle equals more metabolic action which helps for both weight loss and maintaining weight loss. However, it is extremely easy to ‘out eat’ your exercise.” When you exert energy weight lifting, your body compensates by increasing leptin, your hunger hormone, to maintain homeostasis and keep things nice and balanced for survival, she explains. To be clear, by no means should you stop snacking or restrict yourself from meals if you’re trying to lose weight (or ever, for that matter). But instead of reaching for a salty bag of chips after your next lift session, try a healthy snack that will keep you full and support your long-term weight loss goals (think: nuts, avocados, hummus, fruits, and whole grains). 8. …or you’re eating too little.Being in a calorie deficit – burning more calories than you consume – is often held as a gold standard strategy for weight loss. However, if your body doesn’t get enough calories, you can experience muscle loss, fatigue, nutritional deficiencies and even decreased motivation to keep exercising, all of which make weight loss harder, says Zenker. Instead of restricting your calorie intake, fill your plate with nutrient-dense whole foods and focus on intuitive eating, which involves honoring your hunger and fullness cues. Think: eating when you’re hungry, stopping once you’re satisfied and not feeling guilty for enjoying yummy meals.9. You need more rest, recovery and sleep.Despite the idea that going hard in the gym is the only way to see weight loss results, getting enough rest matters, too. “You don’t get stronger while you’re working out – you get stronger when your body recovers,” Matheny says. Make sure you’re stretching before and after your workouts and integrating regular “rest days” into your routine. Try not to train the same muscle group over consecutive days, and give yourself 24 hours of rest in between workouts if you can, Matheny adds.Additionally, getting enough shut-eye is even more important if you’re working out while trying to lose weight. “Inadequate sleep can disrupt the balance of hunger hormones such as ghrelin and leptin, leading to increased appetite and cravings for high-calorie foods,” says Zenker. Better sleep quality (think: restful, undisturbed sleep on a consistent basis) and longer sleep duration have been associated with higher success in weight loss efforts, per a study published in Nutrients.The recommended amount of sleep for adults is seven to nine hours, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To achieve optimal rest, set up a healthy sleep environment which may involve relaxing activities before bed, reducing screen time, and limiting caffeine intake, says Zenker.10. Not enough time has passed yet.It’s natural to want fast weight loss results, however, it’s important for weight loss to be healthy and sustainable, so be patient with the journey. “Weight loss is a gradual process. Significant changes in body composition often take time – and especially if you’re looking to increase muscle mass while losing fat, progress could be slightly slower,” says Zenker. Your weight can fluctuate during the day by 2.2kg or more, depending on factors like water retention, bowel movements, fluid intake and your menstrual cycle, she adds. So, know that it may take a while, and patience and consistent healthy habits will pay off.READ MORE: How Many Carbs Should I Eat If I’m Trying To Lose Weight?How To Lose Weight SafelyIf you’re lifting weights consistently and incorporating practices like healthy eating, adequate rest and recovery, moderating (or avoiding) alcohol, and the other tips experts have suggested, you could notice a change in your weight in as little as a few weeks, says Matheny. However, there is no fast track or one-size-fits all solution for weight loss, and sometimes you may need to shake up your lifting routine to see clear results over time.One way that you can do this is by engaging in both low and high-impact exercises to give your body a variety of training, says Dr. Lee. “Resistance training is crucial for metabolism maintenance, but also make sure you are doing something for overall cardiovascular health,” she says. Cycling, dance, and boxing are all great workout options to add, she says. If you’ve been trying to lose weight for a month and you don’t feel that you’re making any progress, it’s a great time to re-evaluate your routine, Cording says. It can help to track your nutrition with a food diary, use a fitness app for motivation or grab a friend and go to the gym together for accountability. You may also want to invest in a scale that measures your body fat percentage so you can watch that number go down instead of your overall weight, Matheny says.It may also help to monitor more than just the number on the scale – or take a break from tracking your weight altogether, Zenker says. Instead, focus on your exercise performance and how you feel, she recommends. “Celebrate small wins,” she says. “Every small step counts.”This article by Korin Miller was originally published on Women’s Health US. More

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    This Classic Gazpacho Recipe Is Excellent Hydration + Antioxidants

    The summer buzz means sundowners, picnics and all things chilled. It’s also par for the course to eschew heavy foods in favour of salads, fruit and smoothies. But don’t discount soup. Yes, this classic gazpacho recipe is not only hydrating but packs an antioxidant punch.The case for this chilled gazpacho recipe“It’s normal for appetite to decrease in hot weather and you need to focus on nutrient-dense foods to ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs even if you’re eating less,” says Retha Harmse, registered dietician and spokesperson for the Association for Dietetics in South Africa (ADSA). Summer’s abundance of locally-grown fruits and veg makes it easy to include diverse fresh veg and nutrients into your menu. “It’s a great time to experiment with recipes that highlight summer produce, like gazpacho with fresh tomatoes, delicious salads with lots of crisp greens or berry parfaits with yoghurt,” says Harmse.Allow us to expand on the benefits of tomato-based gazpacho:Tomatoes consist mostly of water, making them a truly hydrating fruit for summer. It’s also rich in nutrients like potassium, magnesium and calcium. It’s also a potent antioxidant, which protects from cancers, improves skin health and protects the heart. Specifically, these red rounds contain Vitamin C, lycopene, beta-carotene and vitamin E.Tips for an excellent classic gazpachoTo make this a truly exceptional delight, allow your soup to chill out for at least two hours – this allows the flavours to develop.

    Use ripe tomatoes. The quality of your tomatoes greatly affects the flavour. Vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes are excellent choices.

    Season as you wish. Feel free to adjust the vegetables and seasonings. For instance, adding a small jalapeño can spice things up – and up the nutrient content.

    Try different toppings:Diced avocado for creaminess

    Croutons or toasted seeds or chickpeas for crunch

    Diced cucumber or bell peppers for extra texture

    A dollop of sour cream or Greek yoghurtREAD MORE: You Can Make A Healthy, Protein-Packed Lunch In 5 Minutes

    Retha Harmse’s Classic Gazpacho Recipe

    Summertime is when seasonal produce is at its peak flavour and nutritional value. It’s a great time to experiment with recipes that highlight summer produce, like this classic gazpacho recipe with fresh tomatoes.

    Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 3 minutes minsChill Time 2 hours hrs

    Course Appetizer, dinner, Drinks, Lunch, Side Dish, Soup, StarterCuisine Healthy, Spanish, Vegan, Vegetarian

    Servings 6Calories 101 kcal

    6 ripe tomatoes cored and roughly chopped1  large cucumber peeled and chopped1 red pepper seeded and sliced 1 green pepper seeded and sliced1 small red onion chopped2 cloves garlic minced3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil2 Tbsp red wine or sherry vinegar1 tsp salt, to taste ½ tsp ground black pepper ½ tsp cumin ground (optional)cayenne pepper to taste (optional)2 cups cold water or low-sodium tomato juiceFresh basil or parsely for garnish
    Prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, red and green peppers, red onion, and minced garlic.Working in batches, if necessary, add the vegetable mixture to a blender or food processor.Add the olive oil and vinegar. Blend until you reach your desired consistency—some prefer a smooth soup, while others like it a bit chunky.Season and adjust consistency: Stir in the salt, black pepper, cumin, and cayenne pepper if using. Add tomato juice or cold water to achieve your preferred thickness.Pour the blended mixture back into the bowl.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.Serve with fresh basil or parsely leaves to garnish and drizzle a little extra olive oil on top, if desired.

    Keyword 15-Minute Recipes, blender recipes, Classic Dish, comfort food, Easy Meals, healthy, Healthy Recipes, healthy soup, Loadshedding-Friendly, low-carb, Lunch, No-Cook Recipes, quick and healthy meals, soup, tomato, Vegan, vegetarian

    Classic Gazpacho Nutritional InformationAssuming the recipe yields 6 servings, and minimal added salt is used, here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:Energy: approximately 421 kJ (101 kcal)

    Protein: 2.1 g

    Carbohydrates: 8.9 g (of which sugars: 6.5 g)

    Total fat: 7.5 g (of which saturated fat: 0.98 g)

    Dietary fibre: 2.8 g

    Total sodium: approximately 50-150 mg (depending on added salt and ingredients)

    Glycaemic Index (GI): estimated to be lowREAD MORE: 3 Easy, Healthy Sorbet Recipes Perfect For Sunny Days More

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    3 Workouts That Actually Make Great Dates!

    Not all sweat sessions make for great dates, for the obvious reasons… but these three workouts will help you feel the burn and the love.1. Weight CircuitWhy it’s date-worthyA fun routine in which you each pick two moves – and both do all four – allows you to lift weights together, but at your own speed. For each move, do as many reps as possible in 60 seconds and keep going for 15 minutes. Bonus: you’ll have time to continue the date post-gym…Use cautionDon’t lift heavier weights just to impress him, says strength and conditioning specialist Rachel Cosgrove, author of The Female Body Breakthrough: The Revolutionary Strength-Training Plan for Losing Fat and Getting the Body You Want.Pro tipKeep track of how many reps you each do of every exercise during the first round. Then challenge each other to beat that on round two.READ MORE: This 20-Minute Dumbbell Full-Body HIIT Workout Will Make Your Muscles Pop Head To Toe2. HIIT ClassesWhy it’s date-worthyDark room + sweat + good tunes + club lighting = a totally sexy vibe. Plus it’s good to shake things up from the bar scene to the health scene. Try SWEAT 1000 or Switch: these boutique gyms offer structured classes, so you don’t have to think about yourself and be self-conscious, you just go for it – while high-fiving and motivating each other to push through.Use cautionDate jitters may cause you to tense your shoulders or forget about your form. Just relax and focus on keeping your core tight, which will help unclench the rest of your body naturally.Pro tipThese classes usually get crowded – arrive early so you can snag side-by-side mats and treadmills.3. YogaWhy it’s date-worthyYoga helps you connect with yourself and each other. Physically, your breath and heartbeats will be in sync. It also allows you to be present and focused, leaving any preconceived ideas behind. Plus, suggestive postures can get you in the mood – ahem, bridge! Open those chakras!Use cautionDon’t try too hard or let your ego get the best of you. This is not the moment to attempt crow pose for the first time! Know where you’re at and what you’re capable of. That said, if you do topple over, just remember you’re in a non-judgemental space, so laugh it off and carry on.Pro tipYou’re going to be bending and stretching into all kinds of positions, so make sure you wear gear that is not restrictive.READ MORE: The Best Yoga Flow For RelaxationDress CodeThe perfect gym-date outfit is one that plays up your best features but isn’t overly revealing. Try the one-sexy-thing rule. For example: if you have fabulous legs, wear short shorts and a long-sleeve tee. If you want to show off your cleavage, choose a low-cut tank, but
 pair it with long tights.READ MORE: 7 Sporty Wardrobe Essentials Every Woman Should OwnWhat To Do AfterwardsShowering kills the mood (unless you’re doing it together, hey-o!). Instead, try one of these come-as-you-are post-workout spots to keep the good times rolling.Juice barPick a drink made with pomegranate, avocado or banana – all have been found to help boost arousal.Health cafeThink cosy and casual with food options that won’t negate your workout. Some
of our faves are:Active Recovery StrollKeep the movement going with a casual walk in a scenic park or along the beach. It’s the perfect way to cool down, chat and soak up some fresh air together.Sports MassageBook a couples’ sports massage or take turns assisting each other with deep stretching to help with muscle recovery. Bonus: it’s a great way to bond while easing post-workout soreness. More

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    This Full-Body Dumbbell Strength Workout Hits Every Muscle Group

    Picture this: You walk into the gym, or your home set-up and…stall. Maybe you ask yourself, What the heck should I do in my workout today? Leg day? Arm day? The typical workout confusion.The time-saving solution: this total-body burner programmed by Ariel Belgrave, CPT, using only a set of dumbbells. This full-body workout is guaranteed to light up muscles from head to toe with just five beginner-friendly moves. Each of the compound moves engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously giving you an effective and efficient workout.Meet the expert: Ariel Belgrave, CPT, is the creator of The L.E.A.N. Program fitness and nutrition coaching and the program creator behind the Women’s Health 28-Day Workout Challenge.You’ll be done in exactly 21 minutes. (Don’t skip the 1-minute warm-up that primes your bod for optimal performance during the 20 minutes of work.) But, anytime you feel ugh or just don’t wanna sweat (it happens to all of us), repeat one or all of these mantras to yourself: One workout has the power to change your whole mood for the better. The goal is progress, not perfection. You’ve got this.Time: 20 minutes | Equipment: Light to medium dumbbells | Good for: Full bodyInstructions: Warm up with 30 seconds of jumping jacks and 30 seconds of inchworms (shown below). Then, perform as many reps as possible (AMRAP) of each move for 40 seconds, followed by 20 seconds of rest. Repeat the workout exercises for a total of 4 rounds.Warm-Up: Jumping JacksHow to:Start standing with feet hips-width apart and arms relaxed at sides.

    Jump feet out much wider than hips as you swing arms out to sides and overhead.

    Reverse the motion to return to standing. That’s 1 rep.Warm-Up: InchwormHow to:Start standing with feet hips-width apart. Hinge at your hips and lower down (imagine yourself doing a deadlift) until your hands reach the ground, allowing knees to bend.

    Crawl forward lifting one hand at a time with hips lifted until you’re in a high plank.

    Walk your hands one by one back to your feet.

    Reverse the deadlift motion to return to standing. That’s 1 rep.READ MORE: Get Stronger For Rock Climbing With This Full Body WorkoutWood Chop And PressHow to:Stand with feet wider than hips while holding a dumbbell in both hands by right thigh.

    Engage core and raise DB across body to left shoulder, allowing torso and toes to naturally open up as you twist.

    Release right hand.

    Press dumbbell straight overhead so left arm is fully extended.

    Reverse movement, lowering dumbbell to shoulder, then diagonally across front of body to right thigh. That’s 1 rep.

    Repeat on same side for 20 seconds, then switch.Form Fix: Bend your knees and engage your leg muscles to press the weight up with force. Boom!Modified BurpeeHow to:Stand with feet slightly wider than hips, holding a dumbbell in each hand against thighs, palms facing each other.

    Squat and place dumbbells on floor between feet.

    Keeping hands on DBs, walk back into a plank position and hold.

    Reverse movement by returning to squat, then stand. That’s 1 rep.Form fix: Keep your core engaged throughout to maintain proper posture and stay stable.Squat PressHow to:Stand with feet slightly wider than hips, holding dumbbells by shoulders.

    Bend knees and lower butt as if sitting in a chair, keeping weight in heels.

    Press dumbbells overhead as you push up to standing.

    Lower dumbbells back to shoulders. That’s 1 rep.Form fix: Don’t let your chest drop or your gaze lower to the floor at any time.READ MORE: Get A Full-Body Workout In Just 15 Minutes With Only 2 Household ItemsChest PressHow to:Lie face-up with knees bent and feet flat on floor.

    Holding a dumbbell in each hand, extend arms directly above shoulders, palms facing toes.

    Slowly bend elbows, lowering weights out to the side until elbows form 90-degree angles.

    Drive dumbbells back up to starting position. That’s 1 rep.Form fix: Think about opening the chest and pulling the shoulder blades down your back to fully engage the upper-body muscles.Toe TouchesHow to:Lie faceup, holding one dumbbell in both hands and extending arms and legs to ceiling.

    Lift head and shoulder blades off floor as you reach dumbbell toward toes. Keep lower back glued to floor and arms and legs stretched toward ceiling throughout the rep.

    With control, lower head and shoulders back to floor. That’s 1 rep.This article by Jennifer Nied was originally published on Women’s Health US. More

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    8 Easy Pizza Toppings That Are Delicious AND Healthy

    Who says pizza can’t be healthy? These toppings are packed with nutrients and yum factor!Health NutBlend 80g roast pumpkin or butternut with 2 sage leaves and 1 tbsp olive oil and spread on the base. Top with 60g cooked quinoa and bake. Garnish with 1⁄2 tbsp flaxseeds, 1 tsp pumpkin seeds, 20g rocket and chilli flakes.Green BeltTop the base with 80g tinned chopped tomatoes, 30g courgette ribbons, 50g blanched broccoli, 30g blanched green beans and 60g mozzarella. Bake, then drizzle with 1 tbsp basil pesto and 1 tbsp olive oil.The Big FishCook your base all the way through (10 to 15 minutes), then spread with guacamole (make your own by blitzing 80g avo, 1 tbsp olive oil, lime juice, 20ml water, 1 tsp chopped red onion and coriander). Top with 40g blanched asparagus and 80g smoked salmon.Get A ShroomTop the base with 80g tinned chopped tomatoes, 40g chopped shiitake mushrooms and 60g mozzarella. Bake and then drizzle with sesame oil. Garnish with basil.READ MORE: You Can Make A Healthy, Protein-Packed Lunch In 5 MinutesTruffled UpDot 150g mozzarella and 50g mushrooms on your base, season and bake. Serve with a drizzle of truffle oil and chopped fresh parsley.Popeye & PrawnsTop your base with 80g tinned chopped tomatoes and top with 10g baby spinach and 18 to 20 cooked prawns. Finish baking in the oven, then serve with 1 tbsp caviar (optional), a drizzle of olive oil and basil leaves.Kale-fornicationBlanch 80g kale, then blitz with 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 clove garlic and spread on your base. Top with 40g blanched pak choi, 60g sprouts and 60g mozzarella. Bake and serve with 1 chopped chilli, 1 tsp sesame seeds and a drizzle of tamari (or wheat-free soy sauce) and sesame oil.Just Beet ItBlitz 80g cooked beetroot with 1 tbsp olive oil and spread over a base. Top with 60g goat’s cheese then bake. Serve scattered with 1 tsp flaxseeds, 10g walnuts (chopped), 20g rocket and a drizzle of raw honey.Looking For A High-Protein Base Recipe?Give the viral cottage cheese pizza base by @coconutandbliss a go! Just 3 ingredients for a crispy and seriously delicious bite. Top with tomato paste, cheese and one of the toppings above. Chef’s kiss!Looking for more? Here’s the low-down on the best vegan pizzas. More

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    Sculpt Your Legs And Butt With This 20-Minute Dumbbell Lower-Body Strength Workout

    Think you need a full weight room and oodles of time to sculpt your lower body? Think again. You can strengthen every muscle from the waist down using only dumbbells in 20 minutes flat. So doable!The key is a sequence of compound moves that challenges the legs (hamstrings, calves, quads) and butt (glutes). And, you can adapt this lower-body workout from Ariel Belgrave, CPT, to your level of fitness thanks to the AMRAP (as many reps as possible) programming.Meet the expert: Ariel Belgrave, CPT, is the creator of The L.E.A.N. Program fitness and nutrition coaching and the program creator behind the Women’s Health 28-Day Workout Challenge.Whether you’re beginning a brand-new fitness journey, starting over, or just itching to get into a new routine, get ready to make your lower body burn in the best way. Grab a set of dumbbells that challenges you but allows you to keep repeating the moves for the entire interval.Time: 20 minutes | Equipment: Dumbbells | Good for: Lower bodyInstructions: Warm up with 30 seconds of invisible jump roping and 30 seconds of hip openers (shown below). Then, perform as many reps as possible of each exercise for 40 seconds, followed by 20 seconds of rest. Repeat the workout exercises for a total of 4 rounds.Warm-Up: Invisible Jump RopeHow to:Stand with feet hip-width apart and arms bent at sides.

    Simultaneously swing your arms as if turning a jump rope while jumping with alternating feet.Warm-Up: Hip OpenersHow to:Start standing with feet shoulder-width apart and elbows bent at a 90-degree angle.

    Lift your right leg and bend the knee, circling it in, up and around.

    Place your right foot back in the same spot.

    Lift your left leg and bend the knee, circling it in, up and around.

    Place your left foot back in the same spot. That’s 1 rep.READ MORE: The Best 28-Day Workout Challenge To Get Stronger All Over Using Only DumbbellsLateral Squat WalkHow to:Stand with feet hip-width apart holding a dumbbell at your chest at one end of your mat.

    Squat down halfway so your thighs are almost parallel with the floor.

    Maintain the squat position and engage core, as you step out with your right foot.

    Step your left foot to the right so you’re back in that starting squat stance, keeping your weight in your heels.

    Continue taking lateral squat steps to the right until you reach the end of the mat.

    Repeat back to the left, moving step by step to the other end of the mat.

    Continue alternating.READ MORE: New Study Finds Exercise Before Cancer Diagnosis May Lower Progression RiskGoblet Squat“A variation of the traditional squat, a goblet squat incorporates load in a way that improves your grip strength,” Earnest explains. “Think of the ‘bell as extra credit—you’re getting all the benefits of a squat and more!”Target muscles: glutes, quads, hamstrings, biceps, forearm and shouldersHow to:Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart, holding a dumbbell in front of your chest, with your elbows pointing toward the floor. Push your hips back and bend the knees to lower into a squat.

    Press through heels to return to start. That’s 1 rep.

    Complete 10 reps, then move on to your next move.Deadlift And Calf RaiseHow to:Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent, holding a dumbbell in each hand in front of your legs with your palms facing thighs.

    Hinge forward at the hips, pushing your hips back as you lower the dumbbells down along the front of your body. You should feel a stretch in the back of your legs (hamstrings). Keep a slight bend in your knees to avoid locking out the joint.

    Squeeze your glutes as you drive your hips forward to return to the starting position. After you stand tall, lift your heels off the ground and engage your calves for stability.

    Lower your heels back to the mat to return to the starting position with feet flat on the ground. That’s 1 rep.Tip: When completing the deadlift, focus on keeping your back in neutral alignment with your neck and shoulders throughout the entire movement (straight line from head to tailbone).Reverse LungeReverse lunges are beneficial because “they put less stress on your joints and give you a bit more stability in your front leg as you drive through it,” Earnest explains, adding that it’s ideal for those trying to improve their balance and knee control. “If you are looking to improve your hip mobility, this is a great way to increase your hips’ range of motion.”Target muscles: glutes, hamstrings, quads and coreHow to:Start by standing with dumbbells in either hand. Step your left foot back, dropping the left knee to just-barely touch the ground.

    Press through the right heel to return to standing, keeping your head and chest up the whole time.

    Repeat on opposite side. That’s 1 rep.

    Complete 10 reps each side, then move on to your next move.READ MORE: Power Walking Amps Up The Health Benefits Of A Daily Stroll – Here’s How To Do It RightMarching Glute BridgeHow to:Lie on the mat faceup with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor

    Hold a single dumbbell with both hands above your chest.

    Press into your heels to raise your hips up toward the ceiling until you form a straight line from knees to hips to head.

    Maintaining the hip position, raise your right foot a few millimetres off of the floor.

    Lower it back to the floor.

    Repeat on the left.

    Continue alternating.This article by Jennifer Nied was originally published on Women’s Health US. More

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    in fitness and body

    This No-Equipment Upper-Body Workout Blasts The Arms And Shoulders

    When you think of strengthening your arms and shoulders, you might assume you need dumbbells, kettlebells, bands, or any other resistance equipment you can get your hands on. While those modalities are all awesome and effective, you can get a well-rounded, sweaty and super-effective upper-body workout using just your body weight. Really! Here’s how.Meet the expert: Ariel Belgrave, CPT, is the creator of The L.E.A.N. Program fitness and nutrition coaching and the program creator behind the Women’s Health 28-Day Workout Challenge.The moves in the workout ahead combine cardio and strength training for an optimal combination that not only gets your heart rate revving but also helps you change your body composition and increase muscle definition, endurance and overall strength, Belgrave says.The exercises also prioritise putting your body into weight-bearing positions for maximum resistance sans gym equipment. For instance, in the inchworm to shoulder tap as well as the downward dog toe tap, you move in and out of a high plank position, which recruits tons of upper-body, while also working the core and glutes to keep you stable. So much bang for your buck! Time: 20 minutes | Equipment: None | Good for: Full body (with an emphasis on shoulders, biceps, triceps, back)Instructions: Warm up with 30 seconds of TYWs and 30 seconds of arm circles (shown below). Then, perform as many reps as possible (AMRAP) of each move for 40 seconds, followed by 20 seconds of rest. Repeat the workout exercises for a total of 4 rounds.Warm-Up: TYWHow to:Start standing with feet hip-width apart, then hinge at the hips to bring your torso slightly forward. Maintain a straight back. Extend arms out to sides to form a T shape.

    Maintaining your body position, swing the arms up so the upper arms align with the ears, forming a Y shape.

    Core engaged the entire time, bend elbows to waist and retract the shoulder blades to form a W shape.

    Continue repeating the sequence.Warm-Up: Arm CirclesHow to:Stand with feet hip-width apart, arms extended out to sides.

    Keeping shoulders down and core engaged, bring arms up and around in medium-sized circles.

    After 15 seconds, reverse the direction.Jab PunchesHow to:Start in a boxer’s stance with your left leg forward and right leg back, knees bend, fists protecting face.

    Punch the left arm out and pull first quickly back to face, then repeat with the right arm. Continue alternating.READ MORE: Try This Upper-Body Dumbbell Strength Workout For Serious Arm SculptingInchworm To Shoulder TapHow to:Start standing with feet hip-width apart.

    Reach down to ground and crawl out into a plank position.

    Keeping hips square to ground, lift right hand to tap left shoulder, then return right hand to ground and lift left hand to tap right shoulder. Return left hand to ground.

    Walk hands back to feet and return to standing. That’s one rep.Form fix: Keep your hips and torso totally still as you perform the shoulder taps.Downward Dog To Toe TapHow to:Start in a high plank position.

    Press torso back toward legs so that your heels lower to the ground, while reaching left arm to right toes. Maintain a long spine.

    Return to high plank.

    Repeat movement, bringing right arm to left toes.

    Return to high plank. That’s one rep. Continue alternating.READ MORE: The Best 28-Day Workout Challenge To Get Stronger All Over Using Only DumbbellsPush-up And Plank RowHow to:Start in a modified plank position, knees on ground, wrists under shoulders. Maintain a long spine.

    Lower into a push-up so your chest hovers just above the floor and elbows are close to sides.

    Push up from ground to return to modified plank position, then drive right elbow toward sky, performing a row.

    Return right hand to ground. Repeat row with left arm.

    Return left hand to ground. That’s one rep.Superwoman With Arm ExtensionHow to:Start lying face-down, legs extended, arms tucked at sides.

    Lift legs and extend arms overhead simultaneously, engaging back, lats, glutes and shoulders.

    Pause, then lower legs and bend arms to sides to return to starting position. That’s one rep.This article by Jacqueline Andriakos was originally published on Women’s Health US. More

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    in diet and nutrition

    The Lowest Calorie Meals On The Menus Of Kauai, Nando’s, Mugg & Bean, Simply Asia & More

    Let’s be real: when you’re on a particular diet, or trying to hit a health goal, the idea of going to a restaurant is… stressful. Which restaurant meal options are going to be delicious *and* high in protein or low in calories? Which one is actually nutritionally dense? If you’ve ever been fooled by the word “Caesar” preceding the word “salad”, you’ll know: being smart about restaurant meal options requires skill. Enter: these orders from country-wide restaurant chains, as recommended by dietician Taryn Bortz.What’s nutritionally dense food?“Nutrient-dense food is one that delivers a complete nutritional package rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that is relatively lower in calories,” explains Bortz. Look for things with a well-balanced ratio of protein, carbohydrates and fat to keep you feeling full for long and maintain blood sugar levels. And, make sure there is a variety of vegetables rich in micronutrients and fibre.What makes a high-protein meal?If your dish has more than 20% of its energy coming from protein, it’s considered high in protein. Protein provides the amino acids needed to build and repair muscle tissues, which is especially important for women who exercise, are ageing, or experience muscle loss due to hormonal changes (e.g., menopause). It’s also clutch for weight loss, since protein-rich foods can help women feel fuller longer, reducing overeating and aiding in weight control.How to pick a low-calorie restaurant mealPer Bortz, a meal below 400 calories is considered low in calories. If you’re looking to lose weight, low-calorie meals can help create a calorie deficit. Plus, low-calorie options allow you to eat more (and become fuller) with less food. To maximise your meal, pack your plate with whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, lean proteins and fruits, which are rich in essential nutrients.Simply Asia Meal RecommendationsHigh proteinImage from Simply Asia

    Chicken Green Curry (301)

    The traditional green curry option serves as a protein-rich meal and is also packed with antioxidants and fibre from the array of vegetables. The aromatic spices also provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This is a well-balanced meal that is bound to keep you feeling fuller for longer.

    Cal: 630, Pro: 60g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 23g, Fibre: 6gHigh nutrients Image by Timolina on Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    Roasted Chilli Tamarind with Chicken (267)

    “This dish has a well-balanced ratio of protein, carbohydrates and fat to keep you feeling full for long and maintain blood sugar levels. The dish is served with jasmine rice which is an excellent source of vitamin B1, vitamin B6, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, and manganese. Tamarind is an edible fruit that is indigenous to tropical Africa and is rich in polyphenols providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

    Cal: 420, Pro: 43g, Carbs: 48g, Fat: 50g, Fibre: 5gLow calorie Image from Simply Asia

    Chicken Tom Yum Soup (201)

    Soups are both hydrating and nourishing, and a great winter warmer meal! This soup contains a good amount of protein and can serve as either a starter or a main meal. It is low carbohydrate, low fat and bulked up with a lot of flavoursome vegetables: mushrooms, tomato and chopped lemongrass flavoured with Tom Yum and roasted chilli paste, fish sauce, coconut milk and just a dash of lemon juice.

    Cal: 630, Pro: 22g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 7gREAD MORE: How Instagrammer The Healthy Process Healed Her Relationship With FoodWhat to order at Nando’sHigh protein Image from Nando’s

    Nando’s Boujee Bowl

    This meal has a good ratio of carbohydrates, protein and fat. Rice is a lower-calorie carbohydrate option compared to chips or wedges. You could bulk this meal by adding extra saucy spinach. There is evidence to support that the combination of food groups in a meal, particularly pairing protein with a carbohydrate, reduces the post-meal glucose response, keeping you fuller for longer.

    415kcal, 40g protein, 40g carbs, 10g fat, 5g fibreHigh nutrients Image from Nando’s

    Chicken Strips, Veg And Spicy Rice

    This meal is high in protein which also serves as a good post-workout meal to help build and repair lean body mass. It is bulked up with non-starchy vegetables which are high in fibre and water to keep you fuller for longer. The vegetables also contain antioxidants and vitamins which promote good health.

    335kcal, 31g protein, 40g carbs, 6g fat, 11g fibreLow calorie Image from Nando’s

    Chicken Salad

    Because this is so low in carbohydrates you can pair this with ½ Nando’s roll or a flame frilled mielie and your meal would still be below 400kcal. The pairing with a carbohydrate will leave you feeling fuller for longer and help maintain your blood sugar levels.  

    Cal: 353, Pro: 33g, Carbs: 2g, Fat: 22g, Fibre: 11gKauai Meal OptionsHigh protein Image from Kauai

    Cajun Chicken Quesadilla

    This meal is 33% protein and has a good ratio of carbohydrates, protein and fat. To reduce the carbohydrate quantity, the wrap can be substituted for a low-carb wrap (approximately 20g carbohydrates per low-carb wrap and contains more fibre). This is an optimal post-workout meal.

    Cal: 537, Pro: 44g, Carbs: 43g, Fat: 21g, Fibre: 6.4gHigh nutrientsImage from Kauai

    Sriracha Chicken Salad

    This meal is packed with tomatoes, peppers and spinach which are high in vitamin C, iron and folate. There is also a good proportion of carbs and protein. To reduce the fat, only use half the dressing (ask for it to be served on the side). This can also help reduce the calories by a significant amount. There is also significant protein (the protein portion is higher than the carbohydrate) which will keep you feeling fuller for longer and prevent energy slumps throughout the day.

    Cal: 620, Pro: 31g, Carbs: 26g, Fat: 44g, Fibre: 10.5gLow calorieImage from Kauai

    Protein Plate With Broccoli

    “This meal is relatively high in protein, low in carbs and the fat can be adjusted if you add less of the lemon vinaigrette (which will reduce the calories below 400). It is packed with green vegetables which are high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.”

    Cal: 450, Pro: 27g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 36g, Fibre: 3.5gREAD MORE: How Many Carbs Should I Eat If I’m Trying To Lose Weight?Meal picks at Mugg & BeanHigh protein Image by Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    Build Your Own Omelette

    Building your own omelette is a much better choice as you can add more protein fillings such as mozzarella cheese and macon. It is also significantly lower calories than choosing an omelette combination off the menu. Try these fillings: mozzarella, beef macon, mushroom, onion and tomato and one slice of rye toast.

    Cal: 730, Pro: 45g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 50g, Fibre: 7gHigh nutrientsImage by Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    Mexican Chicken and Corn Salad

    This salad has a variety of different vegetables which all contain antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. The salad dressing adds to the high-fat content, however one can ask for the sauce on the side and only had half of the amount. This will lower the fat content drastically which will decrease the amount of calories consumed. The salad is also high in protein, which will keep you feeling fuller for longer.

    Cal: 350, Pro: 28g, Carbs: 36g, Fat: 20g, Fibre: 5gLow calorieImage from Mugg & Bean; for illustrative purposes only

    Chicken and Sesame Salad – Light Version

    This salad has a good amount of protein, carbohydrates and fat to keep you feeling full for long and maintain blood sugar levels. The fat content is much lower as compared to the other salads on the menu. Still, ask for the dressing separately to have control over the amount. The light version is much lower in carbohydrates compared to the regular version, which lowers the calorie content significantly.

    Cal: 332, Pro: 21g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g, Fibre: 5gMeals at Vovo TeloHigh protein Image from Vovo Telo

    Chicken Bunny Chow (Remove the Top Bun)

    This “burger” is very high in protein. Removing the top bun or replacing the bun with the ‘naked’ burger option will decrease the carbohydrates by 50%. The dish is lower in fat compared to others, as yoghurt is used instead of cream for the base of the butter chicken filling. The tomato and onion sambal with the fresh rocket filling adds extra antioxidants and fibre.

    Cal: 670, Pro: 62g, Carbs: 75g, Fat: 14g, Fibre: 5gHigh nutrientsImage by by timoliona on Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    Roast Veg Salad

    Nutrient-dense food is one that delivers a complete nutritional package rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. This salad contains a diverse mixture of vegetables, healthy fats and antioxidants (aubergine, mixed leaves, butternut, peppers, toasted seeds, cashew nuts and feta). This salad is also high in fibre and contains more than half of the average person’s daily fibre requirement. This supports optimal gut health and microbiome. To save calories and decrease the fat, ask for the dressing on the side.

    Cal: 1000, Pro: 31g, Carbs: 120g, Fat: 78g, Fibre: 17gLow calorie Image by wirestock on Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    This is a great breakfast option as you can add extra protein or veg such as an extra egg/ spinach/ avo/ chicken livers or smoked trout. It is a low-calorie, low carb and fat and a high protein option.

    Cal: 240, Pro: 23g, Carbs: 14g, Fat: 10gMeal ideas from FishawaysMost fillingImage from Fishaways; illustrative purposes only

    Grilled Large Hake with Small Rice and Green Salad 

    This meal has a good ratio of carbohydrates, protein and fat. 30% of the calories from this meal comes from protein, which indicates that it is a filling meal. Hake is a great protein option, and by choosing the grilled option you are saving a lot of extra calories coming from unhealthy fats! The savoury rice has vegetables which adds bulk, and a side green salad enhances the fibre, micronutrient and vitamin content of this meal.

    Cal: 500, Pro: 36.4g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 19gBest sideImage by by timolina on Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    Greek Salad or Pop Prawns, Hake and Calamari box

    The choice of a side always depends on the composition of your main meal. If your meal contains sufficient protein and carbs, then a good option would be to add a salad or stir fry as a side option. If your meal contains minimal protein, a good side option or a starter to share is the Variety Box: Pop Prawns, Hake and Calamari.

    Cal: 168, Pro: 10g, Carbs: 13g, Fat: 27gLow calorieImage from Fishaways

    Grilled Hake Meal 

    This meal is full of fibre with vegetables and high in protein. Always ask for the dressing on the side to save on the calories from fat. Because this meal is low in carbs, you could pair it with a small savoury rice or a brown bread roll. To bulk up the protein or if you are still hungry, add on a side of small calamari strips.

    Cal: 399, Pro: 23g, Carbs: 22g, Fat: 12gREAD MORE: You Can Make A Healthy, Protein-Packed Lunch In 5 MinutesThis article was first published in various issues of Women’s Health Magazine South Africa in 2024. Some meal options may have changed or been removed from restaurant menus; images are for illustrative purposes only. More