Which foods can reduce cholesterol?

Polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats help to lower blood cholesterol levels. However, according to Dr Andrew Salter at the Nottingham University, increasing the intake of these fats is only half as effective as reducing the intake of saturated fats (found in fatty meats, full-fat dairy products, biscuits and pastry). So, go for lean cuts of meat and cut back on dairy products and junk food.

Why can't I shift those few pounds?

One reason may be that you are at your natural 'set-point' (the weight your body does its best to stay at). If you've been losing weight and reached a sticking point, it's probably because your metabolic rate has fallen (your body needs less energy to function as it gets smaller). Reducing your food intake further may not be the answer, especially if you are already eating too few calories to be healthy. A better idea may even be to increase your calories slightly for a few days only, while stepping up your exercise routine. Then go back on your normal diet . Always speak to your personal consultant before adjusting your eating plan.

Why doesn't crash dieting work?

Crash diets usually fail for the simple reason that they leave you bored and hungry and more likely to binge later. Crash dieting also makes your metabolic rate slow down sooner, so your weight reaches that disheartening plateau phase more quickly. On top of this, the less you eat, the harder the body tries to retain fat. Scarier is the fact that extreme crash diets can cause loss of muscle, including from the heart, hardly a recipe for good health!

How many calories a day should I be eating?

For women of normal weight who aren't very active, experts recommend eating 2000 calories a day. If you want to slim down, try not to go below 1,200-1,400 calories per day. A 1,000 calorie a day diet is far too low and can be quite dangerous. This will not guarantee that you get all the necessary nutrients you need .

Can eating bread make me fat?

Years ago we were led to be believe that eating bread automatically made you fat. This trend is starting again with people now saying that carbohydrates, such as bread make you put weight on by over-stimulating insulin. Most nutrition experts say this is nonsense! In the recent study be Carmen (Carbohydrates ratio management in European national diets) researchers proved conclusively that weight gain can be prevented by eating a diet that's high in carbohydrates and low in fat.

If I'm trying to lose weight, what should my fat intake be?

The Department of Health recommends that no more than a third of our calorie intake should come from fat. If you're taking in 1,500 calories daily (a sensible amount if you're trying to lose weight), this equates to about 55g of fat a day. Translated into food, that's the total amount provided by four teaspoons of low-fat spread, a serving of sardines in tomato sauce, a chunk of reduced-fat Cheddar cheese, a pint of semi skimmed milk and two tablespoons of olive oil.

How can I stop my chocolate cravings?

According to nutritionists its the combination of aroma, sweetness and texture that has us hooked. Learning to eat small amounts, without a guilty conscience helps you get back in control. Eating something sweet but not high in fat can also help wean you off chocolate. Try boiled sweets or sweetened yogurt out of your treats .