Contents
10 tips to balance your TV set
A meal prepared in advance
We know it well: the ideal meal includes both proteins (meat, fish, eggs …), carbohydrates (bread, pasta, rice, sugar …), a little fat, fruits and vegetables, and finally a dairy product. (yogurt, cheese…). So do not hesitate to concoct yourself, the day before if possible, a mixed salad or a vegetable mousse, for example. And if you love to snack, decline your desires like mini-bites or opt for the very trendy verrines. In addition, it is easier to eat on the sofa. For the chocolate mousse for dessert, why not, but plan a starter and a light and varied main course.
Our tip: we think of our menus in advance and we avoid “bottom of cupboards” operations (unless we only have healthy products in our cupboards…).
Our brain cannot concentrate on the television program and what it is swallowing at the same time. Result: in front of the film, the signal of satiation is given with delay. To avoid any excess, we focus on foods that awaken the senses. We cook colorful, crunchy, tasty, crispy. In short: surprising. We think of crunchy breads, raw vegetables skewers with a little homemade yogurt sauce that goes well …
Our tip: if we have a little time, if we try new presentations? And we favor fresh and tasty products!
Beware of fat!
The classics of the TV set are often too bold. The bowl of chips, for example, must remain exceptional. Watch out for cold cuts too! If white ham is less caloric than raw, sausage or pâté are full of fat. Opt instead for poultry (skinless), low in fat, or seafood. Likewise, be careful with oil-based sauces (mayonnaise, béarnaise, etc.). As for tarama and hummus, this divine Lebanese chickpea puree, it will be in moderation. They are almost as fatty as butter! On the other hand, “fatty” fish, including omega 3s that are beneficial to the brain and arteries, do not make you fat. So we make sardine rillettes!
Our tip: we track down sugars, even low-fat ones, and over-processed products. It’s always healthier for us and for our baby!
Get started with vegetables!
TV does not always rhyme with fruits and vegetables. And yet, their caloric density is low. To feel full, it is not enough to swallow 800 to 1 calories, it is also necessary to consume at least 000 g of food. So we dare the homemade soup that satisfies effectively, provides as a bonus micronutrients (vitamins and minerals…) and fibers to boost transit. Or we brown small vegetables in a wok, the small cubes are easier to eat.
Our tip: fruits are not eaten by crunching. Think baked apples, mashed pears or plain fruit soups.
The importance of bread
Carbohydrates are the guarantors of your figure and your good health. Bread, contrary to popular belief, has every interest in being on your TV set. The pita is an excellent product, low in fat and salty. But traditional breads and baguettes (or with cereals) also have advantages. In particular to avoid food cravings. Conversely, sandwich breads, which contain fats and sugars, are similar to fast carbohydrates equivalent to sweets. Also watch out for nans, these Indian rolls sometimes flavored with cheese. They are overflowing with lipids.
Our tip: good quality classic bread has three characteristics. It must resist in the mouth and present a dense and relatively dark crumb.
You do it!
The solution to limiting sugar, salt and fat is often to cook yourself. A homemade pizza made with tomatoes, a little mozzarella and ham is generally less energetic than the equivalent in the store. Same remark for soups. With the exception of certain frozen versions, they are too salty, which promotes water retention and… cellulite.
Our tip: if you buy ready-made, choose the simpler, less elaborate products, and read the labels. Examples: Margarita pizza, soup without additives …
The right choices
Do you have a weakness for salty, acid, and anything that chews in your mouth? Replace your vinegar crisps with less caloric products: large pickles, small sweet white onions, or even pickles. Note: a portion of popcorn is better than chips (you are the one who measures the amounts of salt or sugar).
Our tip: always plan a cottage cheese / chive sauce, low in calories.
When it’s over, it’s over
Prepare sufficient quantities and stop when the tray is finished (we do not refill in the kitchen). You were treated to a full meal. Then, to mark the end of the meal, finish on a sweet touch : peeled fruit, herbal tea …
Our tip: try the homemade milkshake made with strawberries, milk and mixed ice cubes (no added sugar).
Watch the drinks
Beware of fruit juices and sodas, even light. Their exciting virtues whet the appetite. The same goes for alcohol, the consumption of which can have repercussions on health. And we know it, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s zero alcohol! The best is water, tomato juice and plain lemonade! Our tip: to vary the pleasures, we think of different sparkling natural waters.
Never without cutlery
Fork and knife will allow you to eat slowly and facilitate digestion while avoiding exaggerating the quantities.
Our tip: also think about napkins and prefer deep plates or bowls to ward off any awkwardness. Enjoy your lunch !