Holiday FAST FIX

Summer getaway approaching? Shape up in no time with our simple plan

Noticed that with dieting comes a huge helping of misery? All of that restriction to keep your calorie intake low is a sure-fire way to make you feel irritable - after all, not only does food make us happy, but it's also the main component in our social get-togethers! But while those tasty favourites might put a smile on your face, they can quickly scupper your summer goals.

This is thanks to their waist-expanding ingredients of sugar, yeast and refined carbs, which disrupt healthy gut bacteria and encourage inflammation, making it hard to lose weight. The good news? With this clever diet plan you can shift unwanted pounds in time for your holiday without sacrificing your wellbeing. Win, win!

OUR GOOD-MOOD FOOD RULES

1 EAT PLANT-BASED FOODS

Fruit and vegetables are high in antioxidants that inhibit the action of MAO (monoamine oxidase) – an enzyme that breaks down feelgood brain chemicals.

2 KEEP IT VARIED

The trick is to eat as many different foods as possible. A varied diet is good for mental health.

3 SPICE IT UP

Certain spices can help with weight loss and mood. Capsaicin in chillies speeds up metabolism. Saffron, turmeric and ginger stimulate the brain to release ‘happy’ chemicals (endorphins).

4 BEAT INFLAMMATION

Research suggests some forms of depression may be linked to low-grade inflammation in the body. Eat plenty of fish, nuts, ginger, turmeric and veg.

5 NOURISH YOUR GUT