There are times in our lives when we cease to exercise, and sometimes these moments are unavoidable.
An unexpected injury or accident could leave us bedridden for several days, or poor weather conditions could have us stuck indoors and unable to get to the gym. Whatever the reason may be, sometimes we’re just unable (or unwilling) to exercise given the circumstances.
If you’ve had weight-loss surgery, there may be times when you find yourself struggling to adjust to your new, healthy lifestyle. Not everybody is perfect, and it’s understandable when some may be experiencing difficulty with finding ways to stay motivated on the road to weight loss. No matter what the case, it’s important to make sure you’re eating healthy during times of physical inactivity to avoid gaining back the weight that you’ve worked so hard to lose.
Here is a list of foods you can eat and enjoy without having to worry about packing on extra weight during your periods of physical downtime.
1. Broccoli
Broccoli contains a number of vitamins and minerals that will strengthen your immune system and ward off disease, including cancer. Since you’re unable to make it to the gym, broccoli will help keep your general health in top shape. Broccoli also contains fiber to create a lasting feeling of fullness, and is best served raw, or steamed and served as a side dish.
2. Kale
Kale is one of the healthiest vegetables you can eat due to its high fiber content and is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that include calcium, iron, and vitamins A, B, and C. Kale has a fun, crunchy consistency and has a strong, robust flavor. Add kale to all your salads or mix with olive oil and bake it in the oven to make kale chips.
3. Spinach
This leafy green only contains about seven calories per cup. Just like broccoli and kale, spinach is high in fiber, which will make you feel full for longer periods of time. If your salads usually contain iceberg lettuce, swap out iceberg lettuce with spinach leaves, which will intensify the flavor of your salad and provide your body with a higher number of vitamins and minerals.
4. Avocados
In addition to being rich in fiber, avocados contain about 20 different vitamins and minerals, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats — healthy fats that will actually lower your risk for heart disease and regulate blood sugar. Avocados taste great when added to fruit smoothies, sandwiches, and omelets.
5. Kiwi
One tiny kiwi fruit is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, and contains nearly the same amount of potassium as a banana. Kiwi seeds are also abundant in omega-3 acids that can ward off inflammation and help repair body tissue. Kiwis can be eaten plain by themselves, added to fruit smoothies or fruit salads, or pureed into a tasty marinade for chicken or fish.
6. Green tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants that can aid in weight loss, improve heart health, and strengthen the immune system. A cup of green tea is best consumed after meals to aid in digestion. Improve the flavor of green tea by adding natural honey or a squeeze of lemon and grapefruit.
