By Judy Davie **”Is it beneficial when on a diet to eat grapefruit?” — Patricia** Dear Patricia, Yes and no … Yes, because grapefruit is a low energy food that’s rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and soluble fibre. It also helps to detoxify the body and, when eaten with a small meal, may slow down […]

By Judy Davie **”I was thinking of going on a two-day fast to detoxify the body and kick start my weight-loss diet. Do you think it’s safe to do that and if so, how do you recommend I approach this?” — Gillian** While fasting is a tradition with many religions and, properly managed, does not […]

By Judy Davie “I have type 2 diabetes and I am getting sick of Weetbix every day for breakfast. The Heart Foundation approved breakfast cereals have a lot of sugar in them — most of it comes from the fruit. Can you recommend a good cereal without much sugar?” — Leonie Dear Leonie, Breakfast really […]

By Judy Davie In nature, nothing sweet is poisonous, which might explain our inherent love of all things sweet. The problem is that sugar, or rather too much sugar, can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and can endanger the health of people with diabetes. If you like it sweet, there are many more options […]

By Judy Davie We all like to indulge a little at Christmas time, but when we’re trying to lose weight, the temptations around the festive dinner table can easily knock healthy eating plans off course. But there’s no need to sweep your diet under the rug until the new year. Here are some great alternatives […]

By Judy Davie The lowest daily energy intake recommended for healthy weight loss is 6,500kJ. Combined with regular exercise, on 6,500kJ a day you can lose weight, maintain energy levels and feel great. Your main meals should be between 1200 and 2400kJ with snacks falling in at around 300 to 500kJ. Some people prefer to […]

**”Is it important to eat eggs every day for good cholesterol? And is it preferable to eat free range eggs?” — Janette** Eggs are an extremely important protein food containing all eight essential amino acids and numerous vitamins and minerals. Altogether eggs are a complete food. Not so many years ago eggs were blacklisted as […]

By Judy Davie **”I have coeliac disease, and also cannot tolerate dairy and eggs. I want to lose a few kilos before my wedding in three weeks. Can you suggest a simple eating plan for me? I am trying to cut down on the carbs, as all the gluten-free products are high in carbs. I […]

By Judy Davie Lunches must be easy, and there’s nothing easier than a sandwich. Contrary to popular belief, bread does not make you fat, unless of course you eat too much … which can easily happen if you buy the wrong type of bread. Like every other carbohydrate, the best brands are those that have […]