More stories

  • in

    8 outdoor breakfast spots to book in the UAE before summer

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    Before the sweltering heat dons upon us, it’s time to book in a relaxing outdoor breakfast spot.
    From rooftop terraces with panoramic views to cosy cafés nestled in the heart of the city, it’s time to start your day by comfortably dining outside without breaking a sweat.
    Be it the perfectly crafted eggs benedict of French toast, there’s an option for everyone to savour before any long day begins.
    So, swipe through the guide as we’re we’re about to spill some major breakfast tea.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @mimiarr More

  • in

    Exactly How To Pick The Healthiest Muesli For Breakfast, Per Experts

    If you’re wondering if there’s such a thing as the healthiest muesli for breakfast, wonder no further. We’ve spoken to the experts about how to use this breakfast delight in ways that won’t leave you hanging by 9:30.

    Is breakfast important anyway?

    Things we know: Jeremy Allen White is bae, exercise can do wonders and breakfast is important. If you don’t believe us on the last part, hear this: there’s a well-researched connection between people who regularly eat breakfast and their long-term physical well-being, along with their energy levels. To boot, health experts assert that skipping breakfast has been scientifically associated with an increase in various health conditions including heart disease, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. To add insult to injury, some studies even suggest that skipping breakfast affects women more than it does men. But not everyone has the time for a full fry-up in the morning.

    READ MORE: Chew Slowly, Don’t Skip Breakfast And Eat 30 Plants A Week: 15 Easy Food Changes For 2024

    Is muesli healthy?

    Enter muesli: the breakfast champion that strikes a balance between taste and health benefits. Yet, a potential pitfall emerges when deciding on which box of deliciousness should be chosen: sugar. Yes, that sweet temptress that can transform our beloved morning staple from a wholesome delight into a sugary trap. “All muesli either contain sugar or honey as the second ingredient listed. Honey contains almost double the calorie content of sugar,” warns dietician Carey Seady.

    That’s important, since “the first ingredient makes up the biggest part of the product (by weight),” explains dietician Lindie Mosehuus. “Ideally, this first listed item should have the ability to be released slowly into the bloodstream, i.e. have a low glycaemic index (GI) and or be high fibre and or be a wholegrain ingredient.” But if your chosen muesli doesn’t have sugar or honey listed as a top ingredient, you’re setting yourself up for a meal that could be filling and nutritious. That’s because the bulk of muesli is made up of oats, which are naturally high in fibre and promote regular bowel movements, blood sugar stability, can lower cholesterol and help you to feel fuller for longer.

    READ MORE: Two-Ingredient Chocolate Mousse

    What should I look for when choosing a healthy muesli?

    Fibre, fibre, fibre, baby! Experts note that looking at the amount of fibre per 100g serving would be a good way to compare products. You want to aim for about 6g of fibre per 100g serving. When purchasing a box of muesli, Claudine Ryan, a Gqeberha-based dietician, suggests looking at the ingredient list to make sure that the basis (i.e., the first ingredient) consists of wholegrain carbohydrates like oats, wheat, barley, or rye as these are “rich in fibre, antioxidants, and B-vitamins,” she says. Additionally, look for a muesli with less than 5g of sugar per serving.

    How to make the healthiest muesli

    If you’re looking to bulk up the nutritional value of your muesli, there are tons of options. Boost your fibre by adding more fruit, up the protein content by mixing in some protein powder or add a healthy helping of protein-rich Greek yoghurt. You can also add extra fibre and protein by mixing in some chia seeds to your bowl. If you’re looking to boost your omega-3 intake, sprinkle in some walnuts, ground flaxseeds, or chia seeds, says Mosehuus.

    READ MORE: Your Ultimate Protein Pancake Recipe

    Healthy muesli picks

    These muesli picks have more fibre and less sugar, ticking the boxes for what constitutes a healthy breakfast choice.

    Woolworths Fruity Muesli

    Sally Ann Creed Bircher Muesli

    Vital Muesli

    Alpen Dark Choc Muesli

    Faithful To Nature Fruit, Nut & Seed Muesli

    Tia’s Real Granola

    Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.

    Alexa Evans is an editorial intern at Women’s Health. She loves all things travel, nutrition and animals. Additionally, with an Honours degree in Psychology, Alexa is an empath who enjoys learning about the mind and exploring the mind-body connection, as well as helping others.   More

  • in

    These Banana Protein Pancakes Will Keep You Going All Day

    Need an energy boost? Here’s how to whip up some delicious banana protein pancakes (flapjacks) in a jiffy…

    Not only are these pancakes a tasty way to start your day, but they also provide a hefty dose of protein to keep you feeling satisfied and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Plus, the natural sweetness of the bananas means you can skip the syrup (though a drizzle of syrup never hurts). Top with some fresh fruit and voilà breakfast is served!

    Banana Protein Flapjacks

    Serves 3: Per serving: 2076kJ, 8.3g fat, 2.4g sat fat, 79g carbohydrates, 19g sugar, 6.5g fibre, 27g protein, 107mg sodium

    Course Breakfast

    Servings 3 servingsCalories 496 kcal

    ⅓ cup vanilla Whey protein powder⅓ cup all-purpose flour¼ cup quick-cooking oats1 tbsp stevia or other sugar alternative1 tsp baking powder1 banana, mashed1 large egg1 tbsp fat-free plain yoghurt
    In a large bowl, combine the protein powder, flour, oats, stevia and baking powder. Mix well. Add the banana, egg, and yoghurt. Mix.Coat a non-stick skillet with cooking spray, then wipe away the excess with a paper towel and set aside the towel. Use this towel to wipe the skillet between pancakes, re-coating the skillet with the oil and cleaning away any pancake batter crumbs. Heat the skillet over medium-low heat.Spoon about half a cup of the batter into the skillet. Cook for one to two minutes, or until firm and golden brown. Flip the pancake and cook for 30 seconds to one minute longer, or until golden brown. Remove the pancake to a plate. Wipe the skillet with the paper towel.Repeat STEP 3 with the remaining batter to make a total of three pancakes.

    Keyword flapjacks, Pancakes

    Serves 3: Per serving: 2076kJ, 8.3g fat, 2.4g sat fat, 79g carbohydrates, 19g sugar, 6.5g fibre, 27g protein, 107mg sodium

    More Breakfast Recipes: More

  • in

    11 Avo Toast Recipes That’ll Fill You Up For Less Than 350 Calories

    Is there anything more satisfying than avocado toast? These 11 variations—crafted by the Rodale Test Kitchen—will tantalise your tastebuds while packing in plenty of nutrients (avocados are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats). Whether you’re craving something salty or sweet, there’s an option that’ll please every palate.

    1. Cucumber-Dill

    Top a slice of multigrain grain toast with 1/4 of an avocado, sliced, 1/4 cup cucumber slices and 1 Tbsp fresh chopped dill. Serves 1.

    Nutrition information (per serving): 257 calories, 5g protein, 21g carbs, 7g fibre, 4g sugar, 12g fat, 1.5g sat fat, 156mg sodium

    2. Elvis

    Spread 1/4 of an avocado on top of a slice of multigrain toast, top with 1/4 cup sliced banana and 1 Tbsp crushed peanuts. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 257 calories, 8g protein, 30g carbs, 8g fibre, 7g sugar, 14g fat, 2g sat fat, 154mg sodium

    3. Strawberry-Mint

    Spread 1/4 of an avocado on top of a slice of multigrain toast, then top with 2 sliced strawberries and a few thinly sliced mint leaves. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 170 calories, 5g protein, 21g carbs, 7g fibre, 3g sugar, 9g fat, 1g sat fat, 154mg sodium

    READ MORE: You Can Whip Up These High-Protein Bagels For Half The Calories Fast

    4. Everything Bagel

    Slather a piece of multigrain toast with 2 Tbsp cream cheese, then top with 1/4 cup cubed avocado and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp each poppy seeds and toasted sesame seeds. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 287 calories, 7g protein, 21g carbs, 7g fibre, 3g sugar, 21g fat, 7g sat fat, 247mg sodium

    5. Lox & Eggs

    Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 1 sliced hard-boiled egg and 28g flaked smoked salmon. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 334 calories kilojoules, 29g protein, 19g carbs, 5g fibre, 3g sugar, 17g fat, 3.5g sat fat, 239mg sodium

    6. Nicoise Salad

    Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 1/2 a can of drained tuna in water, flaked. Sprinkle with 1 tsp drained capers and the juice from 1/4 lemon. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 223 calories, 18g protein, 19g carbs, 5g fibre, 2g sugar,9 g fat, 1g sat fat, 446mg sodium

    READ MORE: These Flax Energy Bites Will Keep You Fuelled Until Your Next Meal

    7. Bruschetta

    Top 1 slice multigrain toast with 1/4 cup diced tomato, 1 Tbsp diced red onion and 1/4 avocado, diced. Drizzle with 2 tsp balsamic vinegar. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 168 calories, 5g protein, 22g carbs, 6g fibre, 5g sugar, 7g fat, 0.5g sat fat, 158mg sodium

    8. Pomegranate-Almond

    Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 1 Tbsp sliced toasted almonds and 1 Tbsp pomegranate seeds. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 189 calories, 6g protein, 21g carbs, 6g fibre, 4g sugar, 10g fat, 1g sat fat, 153mg sodium

    9. Goat Cheese-Pecan

    Spread 1/4 avocado, mashed, over 1 slice multigrain toast. Top with 14g crumbled goat cheese and 1 Tbsp chopped toasted pecans. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 231 calories, 8g protein, 19g carbs, 6g fibre, 3g sugar, 15g fat, 3g sat fat, 205mg sodium

    READ MORE: You Won’t Even Miss The Chicken In This Chickpea Salad Sandwich

    10. Apple Crisp

    Shingle slices from 1/4 red apple and 1/4 avocado over 1 slice multigrain toast. Drizzle with 2 tsp honey and sprinkle with pinch of cinnamon. Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 213 calories, 5g protein, 36g carbs, 6g fibre, 18g sugar, 7g fat, 0.5g sat fat, 154mg sodium

    11. Breakfast “Sandwich”

    Top a slice of multigrain toast with 1/4 of an avocado, sliced. Add a slice of bacon and a fried egg. Drizzle with 1 tsp of sriracha (or more to taste). Serves 1.

    Nutrition Information (per serving): 292 calories, 17g protein, 21g carbs, 6g fibre, 4g sugar, 16g fat, 3.5g sat fat, 582mg sodium

    READ MORE: Avocado Is One Of The Most Versatile Fruits You Can Cook With

    This article was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com More

  • in

    This Hot-Honey Broiled Pineapple Toast Recipe Will Crush Your Hunger

    Ready to start your day with a protein-packed punch that’s as quick to make as it is delicious? This hot-honey broiled pineapple toast recipe is about to become your morning ritual in just 10 minutes!

    Bursting with immune-boosting nutrients, this a.m. delight showcases the creamy richness of cottage cheese, providing a substantial protein boost for enhanced muscle health and overall well-being. The tropical sweetness of pineapple complements the toast, infusing it with a wealth of vitamins (vitamin C, manganese, zinc and B vitamins), antioxidants and digestive enzymes.

    READ MORE: 9 Of The Best Post-Workout Snacks That Actually Taste Amazing Too

    Quick And Easy Hot-Honey Broiled Pineapple Toast

    Hot-Honey Broiled Pineapple Toast

    The sweet heat of this toast topper will give your morning some zing!

    Total Time 10 minutes mins

    Course Breakfast, Snack

    Servings 1Calories 264 kcal

    1 tsp olive oil⅓ cup fresh pineapple chunks1 tsp hot honey, plus more for serving1 slice whole-grain bread, toasted3 tbsp cottage cheeseAleppo pepper, for sprinkling
    Place oven rack on highest level and heat broiler.Meanwhile, grease a small-rimmed baking sheet with oil. Place pineapple chunks on prepared baking sheet, drizzle with hot honey and toss to combine. Arrange in a single layer and broil for 2 minutes. Toss; broil until golden brown for additional 2 minutes.Top toast with cottage cheese and spoon pineapple on top. Drizzle with additional hot honey and sprinkle with Aleppo pepper if desired.

    Keyword breakfast, Fruits, Pineapple

    Per serving: 264 cal, 7.5 g fat (1.5 g sat), 10 g protein, 275 mg sodium, 41 g carb, 20 g sugars (12.5 g added sugars), 4 g fibre

    For more breakfast inspiration and meal planning, try these Low-Calorie Smoothie Recipes.

    This recipe originally appeared in the March 2023 issue of Women’s Health US. More

  • in

    5 Low-Calorie Smoothie Recipes That Legit Taste Like Milkshakes

    These healthy and delicious smoothie recipes for weight loss are a great way to cool down and pack in nutrients. So give these five under-300-calorie concoctions a whirl, and sip your way to a slimmer body.

    A Penn State study found that people whose smoothies were blended for five minutes ate 12 percent less food afterwards and felt fuller than those whose smoothies were minimally blended. Now that’s a great weight loss tactic we can so get behind!

    READ MORE: The “Amazing Skin” Smoothie Recipe That Actually Works

    5 Low Calorie Smoothie Recipes For Weight Loss

    1. The Cherry Bomb Smoothie

    This low-calorie cherry smoothie is made with frozen cherries, kiwi, orange juice, coconut water and honey.

    Simple Cherry Smoothie Recipe

    This low calorie cherry smoothie is made with frozen cherries, kiwi, orange juice, coconut water and honey.Serves 1. Per serving: 665kJ, 1g fat (1g sat), 38g carbs, 129mg sodium, 5g fibre, 3g protein.

    Prep Time 5 minutes mins

    Course Breakfast, Drinks, SnackCuisine Healthy, Vegetarian

    Servings 1 personCalories 159 kcal

    ¾ Cup Frozen cherries1 Kiwi, peeled and quartered¼ Cup Orange juice½ Cup Coconut water¾ tsp Honey3 Ice cubes

    Up the ante: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder for an additional 15 to 25g of protein.

    Keyword breakfast, healthy, Smoothie

    2. Apple Mojito Light Smoothie

    With only 107 calories, this apple smoothie is great as a breakfast, snack or cocktail. That’s because it’s made with apple juice, peach, cucumber, sparkling water, lime juice, mint and honey. So delicious!

    Apple Smoothie Recipe For Weight Loss

    With only 107 calories, this apple smoothie is great as a breakfast, snack or cocktail. It’s made with apple juice, peach, cucumber, sparkling water, lime juice, mint and honey. Delicious!Serves 1. Per serving: 450kJ, 1g fat (1g sat), 27g carbs, 3mg sodium, 3g fibre, 2g protein.

    Course Breakfast, DrinksCuisine Healthy

    Servings 1 personCalories 107 kcal

    ¼ Cup Unsweetened apple juice1 Medium peach, peeled, pitted and quartered¼ Medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and quartered⅓ Cup Sparkling water¾ tsp Fresh lime juice3 leaves Fresh mint¾ tsp Honey6 Ice cubes

    Up the ante: Add two tablespoons light rum (about 270kJ) and have it at happy hour.

    Keyword breakfast, healthy, Smoothie, vegetarian

    READ MORE: This Delicious DIY Tropical Coconut Granola Will Be Your New Breakfast Staple

    3. Island Refresher Smoothie

    This 221 calorie smoothie for weight loss is made from pineapple, mango, soy milk, cottage cheese and coconut flakes. Just trust us on this one; it’s so creamy, filling and delicious!

    Pineapple Weight Loss Smoothie

    This 221 calorie smoothie for weight loss is made from pineapple, mango, soy milk, cottage cheese and coconut flakes. Trust us on this one; it’s creamy, filling and delicious!Serves 1. Per serving: 925kJ, 2g fat (1g sat), 38g carbs, 244mg sodium, 4g fibre, 11g protein.

    Prep Time 5 minutes mins

    Course Breakfast, DrinksCuisine Healthy

    Servings 1 personCalories 221 kcal

    ¾ Cup Pineapple, cubed½ Cup Frozen mango¾ Cup Soya milk (with a drop of vanilla essence)3 Tbsp Low-fat cottage cheese¼ tsp Unsweetened coconut flakes, for garnish

    Up the ante: Add one tablespoon ground flaxseed for an extra two grams of fibre.

    Keyword breakfast, healthy, Smoothie

    4. Rise And Shine Smoothie

    Still looking for more smoothie recipes for weight loss? Then try this delicious and filling smoothie made with avocado, sweet potato, banana, milk and honey.

    Easiest Avocado Smoothie For Weight Loss

    Try this delicious and filling smoothie made with avocado, sweet potato, banana, milk and honey. Serves 1. Per serving: 1 215kJ, 8g fat (1g sat), 50g carbs, 135mg sodium, 7g fibre, 9g protein

    Course Breakfast, DrinksCuisine Healthy

    Servings 1 personCalories 291 kcal

    ¼ Avocado, peeled, pitted and cubed2 Tbsp Cooked sweet potato1 Small frozen banana, sliced¾ Cup Low-fat milk½ tsp Honey

    Up the ante: Blend in 1/4 cup raw or cooked oats for a thicker texture and more energy-fuelling carbs.

    Keyword breakfast, healthy, Smoothie

    READ MORE: The 12 Best Healthy Green Juice Recipes You Can Make With A Blender Or Juicer.

    5. Awesome Almond Smoothie

    Start your morning with a super satiating 233 calorie smoothie made from banana, kale, almond butter, cinnamon, nutmeg and ground ginger. So yum!

    Awesome Banana, Almond & Kale Smoothie

    Start your morning with a super satiating 233 calorie smoothie made from banana, kale, almond butter, cinnamon, nutmeg and ground ginger. Yum!Serves 1. 975kJ, 8g fat ( More

  • in

    This Delicious DIY Tropical Coconut Granola Will Be Your New Breakfast Staple

    What could be better than a delicious (and healthy) bowl of granola in the morning? Umm, nothing! Homemade granola is actually surprisingly easy to make. Here’s how…

    The first thing you should know is that you can literally throw anything into the mix. That’s because homemade granola is one of those awesome, good-for-you foods, that you can tweak to suit your taste. After making this at home you’ll wonder why you ever bought the pre-made version in the first place. Forget the Pinã Colada, this tastes way better!

    READ MORE: The “Amazing Skin” Smoothie Recipe That Actually Works

    Homemade Tropical Coconut Healthy Granola

    Gina Beretta

    What could be better than a delicious (and healthy) bowl of granola in the morning? Umm, nothing! This healthy, tropical granola recipe is naturally-sweetened by honey and is the perfect breakfast for warmer months.

    Prep Time 8 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr

    Course BreakfastCuisine Healthy

    1 Baking sheet
    3 Cup Rolled oats1 Cup Almonds, chopped roughly¼ Cup Poppy seeds¼ Cup Mixed seeds½ Cup Coconut flakes1 tsp Cinnamon½ tsp Salt½ Cup Dried pineapple¾ Cup Coconut oil, melted1 Tbsp Honey
    Preheat the oven to 130 °C. Combine the dry ingredients (except the pineapple – set it aside for later). Whisk the wet ingredients until smooth. Combine the wet and the dry ingredients in a large bowl until everything is mixed through.Spread the mixture on the baking sheet in a thin layer (use two pans if necessary).Bake for an hour, stirring every 20 minutes. During the last 20 minutes of baking, stir in the pineapple chunks.Remove the granola from the oven and leave to cool a bit. You’ll be tempted to stir the mixture right away but don’t! The granola will form crunchy clusters as it cools.Store in an airtight container or jar.

    Keyword breakfast, cereal, vegetarian

    Shop The Ingredients For This Homemade Granola

    This tropical granola is packed with good-for-you ingredients!

    Not only is honey full of antioxidants, it’s also better for blood sugar levels than regular sugar.

    Almonds are high in Vitamin E which is linked to lower rates of heart disease, cancer and more.

    READ MORE: 3 High-Protein, Low-Carb Breakfast Recipes You’ll Actually Love To Eat

    Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

  • in

    The “Amazing Skin” Smoothie Recipe That Actually Works

    Eat yourself gorgeous! Try this skin-hydrating smoothie recipe…

    The recipe for your skin…

    Winter skin? Add an avocado to your morning smoothie. It contains high amounts of antioxidants, vitamin E and polyunsaturated fats, which all help to keep your skin moisturised. The addition of baobab-fruit powder – high in vitamin C – helps your body to form collagen and elastin, two structural proteins that give your skin support and elasticity.

    Rehydrate Smoothie Recipe

    Serves 1. Per serving (655g): 2 215kJ, 21g fat (3g sat), 77g carbs, 190mg sodium, 19g fibre, 20g protein.

    Total Time 10 minutes mins

    Course Drinks, SnackCuisine Healthy

    Servings 1

    1 banana1/2 avo1/2 cup coconut water10 frozen strawberries1 tbsp baobab powder1 tsp honey10 almonds

    Keyword Smoothie

    Try these products:

    Health Connection Baobab Powder 200g

    This tangy, nutrient-rich African gem enhances foods and boosts immunity with natural vitamins and antioxidants. Add to water, juice, smoothies, yoghurt and cereal.

    Faithful to Nature Karoo Almonds

    Locally sourced Karoo Almonds: Eco-friendly, nutrient-rich “power snack” with protein, vitamin E and a delightful crunch to any meal.

    Nutribullet High-Speed Blender

    Overall this blender received 5-star ratings and reviews. “I love my Nutribullet blender — this is my second one from the first smaller blender and I am so excited that it has a jug. It’s faster and efficient and no spills compared to my first one; very easy to clean. I make my favourite smoothies and soups. Love it!” Valencia K

    Recipe by Amy Rankin More