Sunday, February 8, 2009

Acidic Foods And Why They Will Help You Lose Weight!



Acidic Foods and the Glycemic Index

By Kathy Mondragon, Scandinavian Diets Director of Nutritional Services


Basically, the presence of acids slows down the emptying of the stomach and digestion. As a result, carbohydrate in the food is digested slower, resulting in significantly lowering the glycemic index of the meal/food. A surprisingly small amount is effective. For example, the glycemic value of your meal can be reduced by approximately 30 percent by adding just 4 teaspoons of vinegar to your salad. Here is a list of acidic foods to include while following the Scandinavian Diet.

Vinegar (all types, including balsamic, red wine, white wine and rice vinegar)
Dill pickles
Green olives
Horseradish
Salsa
Lemon & Lime juice
Chutney
Pickled or marinated fish & vegetables
Sauerkraut

Some of these foods may contain added sugar, so always check the ingredients on the label. To be sure there’s no hidden fat, sugar, salt and preservatives, prepare your own salsa, marinades and salad dressings. Here are just a few simple ideas:

Add vinegar, lemon or lime juice to dressings, marinades or sauces.

Include a side salad with an olive oil and vinegar, lemon or lime dressing in as many meals as possible. Try this for a quick and easy salad dressing: 1 part olive oil, 3 parts lime juice, 1 part vinegar. Add mustard powder, garlic and other favorite spices.

Add fresh-squeezed lime juice to your favorite salsa or guacamole.

Flavor water and tea with lemon.

Drizzle balsamic vinegar over steamed vegetables.

Squeeze a fresh lemon or lime wedge over fish and shrimp dishes.

Add lime juice and mint to fresh fruit salad.