COFFEE BOOSTS YOUR WORKOUT

If you love your brew, you’ll be pleased to know that it has positive effects on exercise too. Its caffeine makes you more alert and less fatigued during a workout, and improves reaction time and coordination, says Brian St Pierre, a strength and conditioning specialist and registered sports dietitian.

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COFFEE PHOTOS 123RF.COM
COFFEE PHOTOS 123RF.COM

If you love your brew, you’ll be pleased to know that it has positive effects on exercise too. Its caffeine makes you more alert and less fatigued during a workout, and improves reaction time and coordination, says Brian St Pierre, a strength and conditioning specialist and registered sports dietitian. Plus, a cup of joe lets you go harder without feeling like you are. “It stimulates lipolysis, which is when the body releases stored fat into the bloodstream to be used for energy,” he explains. “This can lead to greater fat loss over time.” The catch? “It doesn’t work equally well for everyone, and definitely not for all activities.” If the caffeine makes you feel shaky or upsets your stomach, skip it. Otherwise, he says to stick with 250ml to 350ml. Opt for iced (it usually has more water in it, and the cold will help keep your core temperature down), and drink more fluids if your session lasts over an hour.

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CRUNCH AND MUNCH

SINK YOUR TEETH INTO THESE LESS-GREASY GOODIES FROM COLD STORAGE. LESS GUILT, MORE SATISFACTION!

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HOT Get a spice kick from the extra-crispy Eatrageous Wasabi Ranch Chips ($3.75 for 85g pack), made using a clean cooking technology that doesn’t involve frying or baking. Per 28g serving: 100kcal, 2g fat, 0g sugar

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NUTRITIOUS No saturated fat or trans fat in The Daily Crave Himalayan Pink Salt Lentil Chips ($6 for 142g pack). Top the chips with chopped tomatoes, mixed herbs and a dash of olive oil to make lovely bruschettas. Per 28g serving: 100kcal, 4.5g fat, 0g sugar

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SWEET AND SPICY Tease your taste buds with Sweet Jalapeno Smart Fries ($3.45 for 85g pack). The potato sticks do not contain any artificial additives. Per 28g serving: 100kcal, 2g fat, 1g sugar

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WHOLESOME New Zealand Kettle Korn ($6.45 for 12 packs) is markedly less sweet and salty than cinema popcorn, so you can enjoy the benefits of whole grains without piling on excessive calories. Per 17g serving: 81kcal, 3.2g fat, 4.2g sugar