Calories… what’s the hype?
Let’s keep this simple.
You body produces energy in the form of heat. That power of metabolism.
A calorie is a measure of the amount of energy it takes to raise the temperature of 1kg of water by 1 degree Celsius at sea level.
For example, a sandwich of 200 calories produces 200 calories of heat that your body can work with.
Hence your body needs to use this energy. That’s why you often hear people referring to “burning off calories”. It means utilizing the energy. You basic body functioning uses a certain amount of calories and then your movement will use some more. Hence, if you exercise, your energy requirements also increases.
So – bear in mind – it’s important to match your activity levels with your caloric intake.
What are empty calories?
Alcohol.. alcohol… alcohol….
I learnt this early on as I love my glass of wine!
This means your body is provided with calories, but not with any nutritional value.
For example if you eat brazil nuts for 100 calories, you get 100 calories of heat as well as Zinc.
However, if you drink 100 calories of alcohol all you get is 100 calories of heat. Nothing else.
The danger of consuming only empty calories (alcohol and sugar) is obviously malnourishment.
This may be motivation to monitor our diets should we wish to have the odd, relaxing glass of chardonnay!
Some ways to eliminate calories:
- Switch to low-fat
- Remove the skin from your poultry
- Avoid salad dressing
- Steam your vegetables
- Think before you eat.
