Portion Sizes

It is very easy to overdo it when it comes to sizing up your pasta portion. We often come in from a long day at work, throw the bag of pasta in a pan and eat it all, without realising we are eating way too much. When you are preparing to cook pasta you should allocate roughly 75g of dried pasta per person. In replacement of the extra pasta you once had, add vegetables or nuts to your dish to keep you fuller for longer.

Change your oils

Cooking with regular cooking oils such as sunflower or vegetable can be healthy to an extent. However, olive oil it is much better for you. Virgin olive oil is great in terms of good fats like monounsaturated, omega-3 fats and contains anti-oxidants. However if you do not mind paying a higher price, then coconut oil is for you. Coconut oil can help you lose weight, reduce the risk of heart disease and help prevent against various infections to the body.

Red over White

We are all guilty of loving our favourite creamy, cheesy, unhealthy Italian dish. However, if you want a healthier option, choose a pasta dish in a tomato sauce such as bolognaise. Tomato is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, good for the heart and not as costly when it comes to that summer body you are dreaming of.

Eat More Fish

Italy is in the heart of the Mediterranean and seafood is fundamental to the Italian diet. Not only does eating fish increase your source of protein and omega-3 fats but it has been found to slow down the ageing of the brain and reduce the risk of diabetes. Fish can be added to dishes such as pasta, pizza or stir fries. Scrumptious.

Vegetables are not the enemy

Italian cuisine can make even vegetables taste good.

Some people find it hard to add vegetables in to their diet. A simple easy way to add vegetables in to the diet is by roasting them. Roasting brings out a sweeter taste in vegetables making them more appealing and tastier. Vegetables can also replace carbohydrates. If you are feeling adventurous why not replace layers of pasta in lasagne for layers of thinly sliced aubergine or replace egg noodles for courgette noodles. Not only do these simple changes reduce your carbohydrate intake but it adds flavour, fibre and essential vitamins.