When you are adhering to a Nigerian diet, losing weight can be difficult. When you dream daily of rich and savory foods like efo riro or edikaikong soup, or even that spicy ofada sauce swimming in oil we so love, that are frequently high in calories. Carbohydrates like white rice, amala, pounded yam or fufu swallows are a trademark of Nigerian cuisine. On a Nigerian diet, it is possible to lose the Kilograms without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, though. In this article, we’ll share some advice on how to lose weight quickly while adhering to a Nigerian diet.
DISCLAIMER: This blogpost is not medical advice and does not replace a Doctor’s or Dietician’s orders for your diet. Please consult your medical practitioner before embarking on any diet.
Portion Regulation
Overeating is one of the main causes of weight gain in people. You must learn to manage your quantities if you want to lose weight on a Nigerian diet. Nigerian food is frequently given in huge portions, making it simple to overindulge. Use smaller dishes and bowls to prevent this, and try to eat more slowly to give your brain time to register when you’re full. Another trick is to drink at least two (2) glasses of water right before eating. This helps you quickly notice when you are full.
Cut Down on Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are an essential part of the Nigerian diet, but they can also be a major source of weight gain. To lose weight on a Nigerian diet, you need to cut down on your carbohydrate intake. Replace refined carbohydrates like white bread, white rice, and pasta with whole grains like brown rice, oats, and whole wheat bread. These will keep you feeling full for longer and prevent overeating.
Increase Your Protein Intake
Protein is an important nutrient for weight loss because it helps you feel full and satisfied. Nigerian diets are naturally high in protein, but it’s important to choose the right sources. Opt for lean proteins like chicken, turkey, fish, and beans, which are low in fat and calories. Prevent heart disease by avoiding processed meats like sausages and hot dogs, which are high in calories.
Consume more fruit and vegetables.
Any healthy diet must include fruits and vegetables. They are nutrient-dense, high in fiber, and low in calories. Fruits and vegetables are simple to include in meals because Nigerian diets are abundant in these foods. To help you lose weight, make an effort to consume at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
Reduce Your Consumption of Fried Foods and Oils.
Nigerians consume a lot of fried meals and oils, especially palm oil in soups and sauces, but they are also heavy in calories and bad fats. Limiting your intake of fried foods is necessary for weight loss on a Nigerian diet. Choose healthier cooking techniques like grilling, baking, or steaming instead. Instead of deep frying, try air frying. Use healthy oils like avocado oil, coconut oil, or olive oil, which are rich in healthy fats, if you must fry your food. Also, limit the amount of palm oil in your soups and sauces to the barest minimum.
Consume A Lot of Water
Water keeps you feeling full and aids in the removal of toxins from your body, making it crucial for weight loss. Dehydration might result from the frequent high salt and spice content of Nigerian cuisine. Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water every day to prevent this. To stay hydrated, you can also include additional low-calorie drinks like green tea and fresh fruit juices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to lose weight on a Nigerian diet if you have the correct attitude and strategy. Pay attention to portion control, up your protein consumption, reduce your carbohydrate intake, eat more fruits and vegetables, avoid frying as much as possible, and drink lots of water. By following these recommendations, you can lose weight while still savoring the delectable flavors of Nigerian food. Goodluck!
