Eat & Drink Your Way To Health This Spring!

It’s safe to say that most people secretly dream of being able to eat and drink whatever they want without ever having to gain any weight.  The better alternative is to have your own arsenal of “food and drink cheats” (that’s healthy options that are as good for you as they are delicious) on-hand at all times to combat any cravings and keep you off the hardcore stuff.

Here are some of my favourite “cheats” which help me stay the healthy course. Let us know in the comments below if you have cheats that we need to know about!

1. OVI Hydration: This brand new drink has literally just launched and I am already a fan. Blending fruit-infused purified water with hints of green tea and just the right amount of sweetness, OVI makes you feel like you’ve had a refreshingly sweet indulgence that’s minus the remorse.

Perfect after exercising, or if you’re always on-the-go, OVI Hydration is a better option to traditional drinks (which are often high in sugar, caffeinated, boring or a combination of all of the above!) Thanks to the inclusion of natural minerals OVI really hydrates, and it does not contain any ‘badditives’.

If you’re like me and always want a pick-me-up after lunch, try swapping a juice or snack for OVI hydration instead, it works!

2. Dried Strawberries: A great alternative to indulging in lollies, strawberries are packed with amazing health benefits. Known to burn stored fat, they are also low in calories and high in fibre. They are filled with biotin, which helps build strong hair and nails. They also contain the antioxidant ellagic acid, which prevents skin sagging (amongst so much else).

Oven-drying strawberries at home is so easy to do (first air dry, then halve, and place in oven for 3hrs at 90deg = voila!)

3. Popcorn: Air popped popcorn (without the high-calorie, high-fat trimmings like melted butter) contains more antioxidants than fruits and vegetables, and it’s very high in fibre! Gram for gram, popcorn has more protein and phosphorus than potato chips, and more iron than eggs and spinach! TIP: Sprinkle with a little bit of parmesan cheese or spice and absolutely SKIP the oil butter and salt.

4. Hommous: Hommous is a super cheat thanks to big flavor, great nutritional  benefits and enormous versatility. The  chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice,  tahini and olive oil which create the dip provides you with protein and a number of essential vitamin and minerals. It can help fight hunger cravings and balance blood sugar levels. Swap traditional spreads and dips for hummous and wonder why you weren’t doing this sooner!

 5. Oatmeal: Garnished with colourful berries, some banana and/or a little natural honey, cooked oats are a wonderful “cheat” breakfast option that taste like they should really be bad for you! Warm and hearty, this wholesome meal keeps you feeling fuller for longer thanks to it’s high fibre content. Oatmeal is also a source of antioxidants, protein, iron, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. A small serve also makes a great dessert alternative to cakes and pastries!

6. Kale Chips: Skip the overly salted, deep fried potato crisps and consider the Kale chip instead. So easy to make at home, Kale chips are a low-calorie, nutrient-dense snack that is beneficial for your health. Using only a fraction of the oil in regular chips (and they’re best made with olive oil that’s even healthier) Kale chips are a “must” on anyone’s cheat food repertoire. To read our earlier story extolling the virtues of Kale, click here.

7. The Lady Shake: It became a sensation among women’s meal replacement shakes in NZ, bringing a wave of refreshment and revitalization to those who seek both convenience and nutrition. Designed specifically for women, this shake not only offers a delicious taste but also incorporates a balance of essential nutrients tailored to meet their unique dietary needs.Beyond its flavor, The Lady Shake offers health benefits that can support weight management, boost energy levels, and promote overall well-being. Its growing popularity in NZ is a testament to its effectiveness and the tangible benefits many women have experienced.

Do you have any food ‘cheats’ or tricks of your own? Sharing is caring so please share them in the comments below!

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