3 Great Low Calorie Recipe Ideas To Keep You Feeling Young

Recently there has been much talk in the media about the life extending effects of a calorie restricted diet on animals. Lab studies have shown that restricting calorie intake in rodents and primates has extended their life by up to 40 per cent.

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Recently there has been much talk in the media about the life extending effects of a calorie restricted diet on animals. Lab studies have shown that restricting calorie intake in rodents and primates has extended their life by up to 40 per cent. However the effects on humans is less clear, but there does seem to be some evidence that a lower calorie diet can stave off some of the effects of ageing. In particular one study in America by the Mayo Clinic found that older people on a high calorie diet had twice the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment, an important indicator in potential development of Alzheimer’s.

A diet that is too low in caloric intake can result in malnutrition, so it’s important to make sure that you are getting enough calories and that your diet is balanced. Older people generally need less fat and sodium and more fibre in their diet but need to maintain adequate protein and calcium intake due to changes in the body as it ages. If you’re looking for some ideas for meals, here are three great low calorie recipe ideas to keep you feeling young.

1. Lemon Baked Salmon With Asparagus.

This simple dish comes in at under 400 calories and is good for you for many reasons. Salmon is a high-protein food and so will keep you feeling full for a long time. The protein content is important for helping the body maintain muscle tone, which can be hard to maintain as we age. Salmon is also full of omega-3 oils and vitamin D, which makes it great for your brain and general wellbeing. The asparagus is low in calories and also sodium, good news for the elderly, and contains high levels of fibre and numerous vitamins such as zinc, calcium, magnesium and many more.

2. Quinoa With Kale, Mushrooms & Sweet Potatoes.

This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare and is low calorie but high in vitamins and nutrients. The kale provides high levels of vitamin K and C, lots of calcium and is a good source of fibre, while the mushrooms provide plenty of vitamin D. The sweet potatoes mean that you’ll get plenty of fibre as well as complex carbs which are vital for maintaining your energy levels. Due to the lack of meat in this dish it is great for anyone looking for a filling but low calorie meal.

3. Cumin Chicken With Black Beans.

Chicken is a meat that is loved by bodybuilders and athletes because it’s high in protein, low in fat and can be cooked into basically any meal. This meal takes some skinless chicken breasts and serves them up with a delicious mix of black beans (protein and fibre rich) plus pepper, onion and tomatoes as well as various herbs to provide all those important vitamins and nutrients.