Latest news with #healthyeating
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Protein is key to healthy aging, but do you need it in everything? Why a dietitian says foods fortified with the nutrient may be 'unnecessary'
Visit a grocery store nowadays and many aisles are filled with protein-fortified foods. Are these items as healthy as the real thing, or is it all marketing? Protein is having its moment in the spotlight, and people are more conscientious than ever about eating enough of this nutrient. For food brands, this is their time to shine as consumers seek out products that help them meet their daily protein goals, which are key to healthy aging. If you browse some grocery store aisles right now, many foods that naturally contain little to no protein now have protein added to them. From high-protein yogurt to breakfast cereals boosted with the nutrient, it seems like many products are promoting protein as some sort of magic ingredient. As a registered dietitian, I've felt the recent obsession with protein. Many of the people I work with want to meet their protein needs in the most efficient and healthful way possible. However, they feel food companies have made it confusing to do so, and I can understand the challenge of determining if a product is actually healthy or just has good marketing. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. What is protein and why do I need it? Protein is an important nutrient that plays a vital role in bodily function, and it's a necessary part of healthy eating. It supports: Skin and tissue repair Muscle growth and maintenance Satiety The immune system How much protein do I need to consume each day? Everyone's protein needs are different depending on age, gender, weight, physical activity level and health goals. An average, healthy adult needs an estimated 0.8 to 1.2g/kg per day of protein, with the lower end of that range being considered the minimum amount to consume. To determine your unique needs, multiply your weight in kilograms by 0.8 and 1.2, and aim to eat within that range of protein each day. What foods might have added protein? Many products are now being marketed as a source of protein, even though they might not inherently contain a lot of the nutrient. It's common to see breakfast cereals, granola bars, pancake mixes, plant-based yogurts, plant-based milk, bread and even chips now labelled as "a source of protein." Depending on the product, you might be getting anywhere from five to 25 g of protein per serving. Companies are adding soy protein, whey protein and pea protein to bump up the overall protein content in these products, but it's hard to know if these protein supplements are of the highest quality. If you're curious what might be contributing to the high protein content of what you're adding to your cart, watch for the following ingredients: Soy protein concentrate Soy protein isolate Roasted soybeans Whey protein concentrate Whey protein isolate Pea protein isolate A protein blend Are these protein-enriched foods healthy? Being high in protein doesn't automatically make a food healthy. Sometimes sugar, salt and/or fat is also added to make the final product taste good, so some products are healthier than others. The best way to know is by reading the nutrition facts and the ingredients on the back of the package. Use these tools to compare products to choose the healthier option. When looking at the nutrition facts, you can use "% Daily Value" to determine if there's a lot or a little of a nutrient in that product. Five per cent or less is "a little," while 15 per cent or more is "a lot." Here's what to look for: Sugar This can be found under "carbohydrates" and is based on total sugar quantity, including both added and natural sugars. Look at the ingredients to determine if sugars have been added to the product, and see the order of listed ingredients to gauge how much is used. If sugar is one of the first ingredients, there's more of it in the product. Ingredients that are sugar are typically words that end in -ose, so look for names like "sucrose," "glucose," "dextrose" and "maltose." Keep in mind that fruit and dairy are natural sources of sugar, so a product might be higher in sugar, but it's from natural sources. Fibre When choosing high protein granola bars, cereals, bread and pancake mixes, look for ones that are also a source of fibre. A good source should meet 15 per cent of your daily value for fibre. Whole grains, oats, flax seeds, nuts, seeds and fruit are whole foods that are high in fibre, so prioritize products that contain these. In terms of fibre quantities for certain products, aim for: Granola bars: At least 3 g per bar Cereal: At least 4 to 5 g per serving Bread: At least 4 g per slice Sodium Processed foods tend to be high in sodium, particularly savoury foods. Next time you're grocery shopping, look for products with lower quantities of sodium. An amount that equals five per cent of your daily value or less is ideal. Fat The type of fat is important here, not necessarily the amount. Choose products that are low in saturated fats and higher in unsaturated fats. Products with nuts, seeds or nut butters will be higher in fat, although it's generally unsaturated fats. Protein As mentioned above, many products supplement with a protein concentrate or isolate, but some do use protein-rich whole-food ingredients to provide the nutrient. Look for nuts, seeds, lentils, chickpeas, soybeans, eggs, milk and nutritional yeast listed in the ingredients, and try to choose these products more often. Ingredients Get familiar with reading the ingredients to get a sense of what's in a product. It's a good rule of thumb to choose products that have a shorter ingredient list. However, don't fall for the trope "if you can't pronounce it, you shouldn't eat it." For example, vitamins and minerals are often added to foods, and their names are long and difficult to pronounce, but they're beneficial. The verdict Prioritize whole foods that are naturally good sources of protein, rather than relying on processed foods that are fortified with protein. Protein-rich foods include: Greek yogurt Cottage cheese Meat and fish Legumes including lentils, beans and chickpeas Soy Eggs Nuts and seeds Milk Aim to include one or two of these sources at each meal, and at least one per snack to help meet your protein needs. These whole-food protein options are also packed with other nutrients like fibre, calcium, iron, vitamins and omega-3 fats. Processed foods with added protein tend to be lower in these beneficial nutrients and higher in less desirable nutrients. Foods that have protein added to them aren't inherently unhealthy, but they're likely unnecessary for people who already meet their goals through balanced meals and snacks. These products are convenient and might be suitable for athletes with higher protein needs, or older adults with small appetites who struggle to meet their needs at meals alone. They may also be beneficial if you're busy and need a quick protein snack on the go. Still, try not to depend solely on protein-fortified foods to meet your daily needs of this nutrient. Additionally, these foods tend to be more expensive, since you're paying for the convenience factor. Protein is essential, but more doesn't necessarily mean better. Most people meet their protein goals without needing to rely on protein chips and enhanced breakfast cereals. Prioritize whole-food protein sources over foods with added protein. But when you do, be sure to read the nutrition facts and ingredients to find the healthiest product the daily Crossword
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
The #1 Salad Dressing for Weight Loss, According to Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelly Plowe, M.S., RDKey Points This weight-loss-friendly Creamy Cilantro-Avocado dressing is a dietitian-favorite. The dressing is higher in protein and lower in calories and fat compared to most other dressings. It's also a source of probiotics and monounsaturated fat, which may also help with weight are a go-to meal for weight loss, but figuring out what dressing to use (or even using one at all?) can be confusing. Are creamy dressings off-limits? Are vinaigrettes always healthier? Do you have to make your own? While many dressings can be weight-loss friendly, there's one dietitian-approved salad dressing that stands out. Keep reading to learn the number one salad dressing for weight loss, how it helps you lose weight and how to include it in your diet. How the Creamy Cilantro-Avocado Dressing Helps You Lose Weight Our tangy Creamy Cilantro-Avocado Dressing stands out amongst the rest when it comes to supporting weight loss goals. Here are the many reasons why. High in Protein In general, salad dressings don't provide a lot of protein, but this Creamy Cilantro Avocado Dressing breaks the mold. The secret? It's yogurt-based. 'Yogurt-based dressings tend to be more supportive of weight loss than other dressings,' says Avery Zenker, RD. That's because they are higher in protein, lower in calories, and can help you feel full longer, making it easier to maintain a calorie deficit, shares Daria Zajac, RD, LDN. A two-tablespoon serving of the dressing has only 32 calories but offers 2 grams of protein. And if you want to bump up the protein even further, use Greek yogurt instead of the regular yogurt the recipe calls for. "Protein is the most satiating macronutrient, compared to fat and carbohydrates. This means it can help you feel full for longer, which can help support weight loss,' says Zenker. Fewer Calories The Creamy Cilantro-Avocado Dressing is much lower in calories and fat compared to other dressings. Many dressings are made with oils, and although oils like olive oil and avocado oil are heart-healthy, one tablespoon of oil has 120 calories, which can add up quickly. 'Traditional creamy dressings can range from 90–240 calories per serving (two tablespoons) with little to no protein,' says Zajac. This dressing has only 32 calories per two tablespoons. The addition of lime juice and cilantro provides loads of flavor without adding more calories. You still get healthy fats from avocado in this dressing, but without the extra calories. Contains Monounsaturated Fat Creamy dressings tend to have saturated fat from buttermilk or cheese, but this dressing contains monounsaturated fat from the avocado. Research shows that consuming monounsaturated fat in place of saturated fat may lead to increased fat burning and more weight loss. More research is needed, but this is believed to be due to the thermic effect of food, which is how many calories the body burns digesting different nutrients. A Source of Probiotics This yogurt-based dressing is full of good bacteria, namely, Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. We're learning that the bacteria in our gut may play a role in the development of obesity. Those with overweight or obesity have been found to have an imbalance of good and bad bacteria, and a lack of variety of bacteria altogether. A systematic review examined 27 studies, finding that specific strains of the genus Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium yielded the best results in reducing body weight. That said, research in humans has been mixed, and more needs to be done. 4 Ways to Enjoy This Dressing Here are creative and tasty ways to enjoy this dressing: Dressing. This dressing can go on many different types of salads, including leafy green salads, bean salads, grain bowls and pasta salads, says Zenker. Marinade. It works as the perfect marinade for chicken or your protein of choice. Marinate the chicken in the dressing for a few hours or overnight, and then grill or bake it the next day. Dip. With a yogurt base, the Creamy Cilantro-Avocado Dressing is the perfect dip for raw veggies, potato wedges or crackers, says Zenker. A ¼-cup serving has 64 calories and a whopping 4 grams of protein. Spread. The Creamy Cilantro-Avocado Dressing is a healthier option than everyday mayonnaise. The creamy spread is perfect for sandwiches and wraps without all the fat typically found in mayo. What to Look for in a Weight-Loss-Friendly Salad Dressing When looking for a weight-loss-friendly salad dressing, Zenker recommends these rough guidelines based on a typical 2-tablespoon serving: Calories: Less than 100 calories per serving Sugar: Less than 2g per serving Total fat: Less than 10g Saturated fat: Less than 2g per serving Sodium: Less than 200mg In addition, Zenker recommends looking for dressings with: Heart-healthy oils: Oils like extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil are good sources of healthy unsaturated fats. Simple ingredient list: You may choose to limit additives like artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, stabilizers and preservatives. Protein: You won't find a lot of protein in most dressings, but consider it a bonus if there is some. Fiber: Not necessary, but also a bonus. For example, a tahini-based dressing. Zenker emphasizes that these are general guidelines, not strict rules. You can still enjoy your ranch or Caesar from time to time, but choosing yogurt-based dressings or vinaigrettes more often will make it easier to reach your weight loss goals, especially if you eat salads regularly. Consider portion size, too. 'If there's a low-calorie dressing but you're inclined to use larger portions, it may be better to use a dressing higher in calories but in a smaller portion so it's fewer calories overall,' says Zenker. And most importantly, choose dressings you enjoy. 'Making healthy food tasty is one of the best ways to make a balanced diet sustainable,' Zenker says. Healthier Store-Bought Dressing Options While making your salad dressing is ideal, we understand that store-bought dressings can make life a lot easier. These yogurt-based store-bought dressings are under 100 calories and are low in sugar and fat, but they are higher in sodium. Lighthouse Foods Yogurt Dressing and Dips Bolthouse Farms Yogurt Dressing and Dips Good and Gather Tzatziki Style Greek Dressing Our Expert Take No salad dressing is off limits, but yogurt-based dressings tend to be more supportive of weight loss than other dressings since they are lower in calories and fat and higher in protein. This Creamy Cilantro-Avocado salad dressing fits the bill with just 32 calories, 2 grams of fat and 2 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons. It's also a source of healthy monounsaturated fat and probiotics. If yogurt isn't your thing, don't fret. Look for dressings with simple ingredients and natural flavor boosters, like citrus and herbs. Opt for heart-healthy fats from avocado or olive oil, and choose dressings high in saturated fat, sugar and sodium in moderation. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
5 Supplements to Take for More Energy, According to Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Katey Davidson, RD, CPTKey Points Healthy eating comes first, but supplements can sometimes help fight fatigue. Supplements like iron, vitamin D, B12, nicotinamide riboside and creatine may support energy. Move your body, get enough sleep, stay hydrated and eat enough food to support your of being tired all the time? You may need to take a closer look at your nutrition. Though eating a balanced, nutritious diet should always be your first approach, supplements can sometimes help if it's challenging to meet your nutrient needs through food alone. 'Some nutrient deficiencies can cause fatigue and low energy, like vitamin B12, iron and vitamin D,' says Avery Zenker, M.A., RD, a registered dietitian, adding that a combination of foods and supplementation may help to correct it. Other supplements like NAD+ and creatine may also help with low energy by supporting energy production at the cellular level. We asked dietitians to share the five supplements they recommend for more energy, plus other tips to boost your energy levels. 1. Nicotinamide Riboside NAD+ has become all the rage in the health and wellness world—and for good reason. A derivative of niacin (vitamin B3), NAD+ plays an important role in energy metabolism and cellular function. 'NAD+ is a coenzyme vital to cell health and plays a critical role in two key cellular processes: converting the food you eat into energy and supporting DNA repair,' says Toby Amidor, M.S., RD, CDN, FAND. Healthy lifestyle habits—such as eating niacin-rich foods, exercising regularly and maintaining a good sleep cycle—can help support optimal NAD+ levels. However, a supplement may help to raise your NAD+ levels faster, especially as you age. 'NAD+ levels start to decline as we age, and things like a poor diet, drinking alcohol and not getting enough sleep can affect your NAD+ levels,' says Marita Radloff, M.S., RDN, LD. However, taking the right supplement is key. 'Although a common misunderstanding, NAD+ is not bioavailable, meaning NAD+ supplements or NAD+ IV (what all the celebs are doing) is not effective in elevating NAD+ levels,' says Amidor. Instead, she recommends a precursor called nicotinamide riboside (NR). 'NR is one of the most well-studied and safe NAD+ precursors, with over 50 years of research,' she adds. 2. Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common cause of fatigue, as this vitamin is important for converting food into energy. It's primarily found in animal-based foods like meat, seafood and dairy. While some plant-based products—like fortified nutritional yeast and plant-based milks—do contain B12, options are more limited. As a result, vegetarians and vegans are at a much higher risk of deficiency. When it comes to supplements for energy, 'B12 is a top pick for me, especially for vegetarians, vegans or anyone over 50, since absorption declines with age,' says Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES. 'Also, folks on diabetes medication may be at an increased risk for low B12 levels,' she adds. Studies show that metformin—a popular diabetes medication—reduces absorption of B12, potentially leading to a deficiency. That said, it's not beneficial for everyone. If you're not deficient, then adding this supplement likely won't have a noticeable impact on your energy levels. To be sure, it's wise to get your levels tested, especially if you suspect you're deficient. 3. Creatine To help you sprint a little faster or get in an extra rep or two, a creatine supplement may help. 'One of the main mechanisms of creatine is to provide energy, mainly to your muscles. It does this by replenishing ATP (adenosine triphosphate)—the main energy source to our body's cells,' says Kristin Kirkpatrick, M.S., RDN. During short, intense exercise, your body relies on the phosphagen system (also known as the creatine phosphate system) to quickly produce ATP. Phosphocreatine, a stored form of creatine in the muscles, helps to replenish ATP quickly, allowing you to sustain high-intensity efforts for brief bursts. You can boost your phosphocreatine levels by eating creatine-rich foods—like beef, pork or fish—or through supplements, which provide significantly higher amounts of creatine than food alone. In fact, research shows that a creatine supplement can enhance performance in sports that rely on quick, powerful movements. 4. Vitamin D Just as plants get energy from the sun, so do we—thanks to vitamin D. However, with growing caution around sun exposure and many regions experiencing long, dark winter months, vitamin D deficiency is relatively common. Because of this, many people may benefit from a vitamin D supplement. Vitamin D plays a vital role in overall health by helping regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, support immune function and maintain strong bones. It also supports the production and function of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which regulate mood and energy levels. Studies show that low vitamin D may lead to fatigue by disrupting the balance of dopamine and serotonin, and by increasing inflammation in the body. 'Supplementing with vitamin D can reduce fatigue and improve energy levels in those who are deficient, but not in those with normal levels,' says Zenker. That said, it's a supplement many adults could benefit from taking. 'Nearly 95% of Americans don't consume the recommended intake for vitamin D, so sourcing from supplements and/or sunlight can be helpful,' says Zenker. 5. Iron Iron deficiency is also common, especially among children, women of childbearing age and pregnant women. Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin—a protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Without enough iron, you may experience symptoms like fatigue and weakness. Foods with highly available iron include beef, chicken, fish and fortified cereals. Still, it can still be difficult to meet your iron needs through food alone. If your bloodwork reveals an iron deficiency, your health care provider may recommend a supplement to increase your iron levels. However, experts recommend taking a supplement only if your iron levels are low or if a health care provider recommends one. 'Iron supplementation is not recommended for individuals with adequate iron levels. So, it's not a one-size-fits-all approach but rather a starting point for patients to consider when discussing with their health care provider,' says Kirkpatrick. Other Energy-Boosting Tips Taking a supplement shouldn't be your only strategy for boosting your energy levels. These habits are just as important to help you feel more energized: Eat Regular Meals and Snacks. 'Eating enough total food for energy is the No. 1 thing you can do to support your energy levels,' says Thomason. After all, food provides the fuel (calories) you need to power through your day. Be sure to eat regular meals and snacks to keep your energy steady. Hydrate. 'One of the best things you can do for more energy is staying hydrated,' says Radloff. The best options are sugar-free beverages like plain or sparkling water, unsweetened tea and milk. Get Up and Move. Sometimes all you need is to get your blood flowing to boost your energy levels. 'Being more active overall can help you feel more energized every day, and a small bout of exercise can give you an energy boost within minutes,' says Zenker. Whether it's a 30-minute workout or a two-minute stretch, make time to move your body and feel the benefits! Take Sleep Seriously. If you're sleep-deprived, a supplement probably won't make much of a difference. Try to get seven to nine hours of good-quality sleep per night to help your body recover and prepare for the day ahead. Our Expert Take Fatigue is a common issue many people face. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to support your energy. Along with eating a nutritious diet, taking certain supplements may help. Creatine and nicotinamide riboside are popular supplements that may support energy levels when taken regularly, while iron, vitamin D and vitamin B12 may help if you're deficient. Don't forget about other habits that can affect energy too, like eating enough calories, staying hydrated, being physically active and sleeping enough. 'Using supplements to support energy can absolutely help, but they're often most effective when paired with a healthy and balanced diet, exercise and proper sleep hygiene,' says Amidor. Rather than seeing supplements as a cure-all, think of them as a tool in your overall wellness toolbox. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
8 liver-friendly foods to add to your diet, as majority of cancer cases preventable
Want to look after your liver better? These eight foods could help. We all know the importance of eating healthily for our heart, gut, and brain – but there are some foods that are especially beneficial for your liver health, too. Despite the liver's status as a vital organ that performs a number of important bodily functions, including removing toxins and fighting infection, it's easy to forget about looking after it. But recent statistics highlight the importance of prioritising your liver health. Experts say that three in five liver cancer cases "are linked to preventable risk factors, mostly viral hepatitis, alcohol and obesity", but have raised concerns that cases caused by alcohol and obesity will increase in the coming years. According to The Telegraph, scientists predict that, by 2050, around 21% of liver cancers will be caused by alcohol and 11% will be caused by a severe form of fatty liver disease, which occurs when excessive fat builds up in the vital organ. Last year, analysis by Cancer Research UK revealed that the number of people dying from liver cancer had almost doubled in the last 20 years. The disease is now responsible for the deaths of 58,000 people in the UK each year, twice the rate recorded in the late 1990s. Cancer Research UK said the figure is projected to continue rising by a further 10% by 2040, warning that liver cancer will have killed around 135,000 people by then. While part of the rise in deaths has been driven by a growing British population, lifestyle factors also play a major role. Katrina Brown, senior statistics manager at Cancer Research UK, told The Independent that around half of all cases are preventable. Drinking alcohol and smoking are key drivers of the increasing number of cases, as well as being overweight or obese. Brown added: "The notable thing for liver cancer is overweight and obesity is a key risk factor, and that has been steadily increasing in the UK – around two-thirds of UK adults are overweight and obese." The number of people who have died with an underlying cause of liver disease in England has also risen in recent years. According to the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), this figure rose to 10,127 from 9,218 in 2019, increasing further to 10,521 cases in 2021. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is important to protect your liver and keep it in good shape for longer. Certain foods have been found to enhance liver function, while others can help prevent or reverse liver damage, according to various studies. Here are eight liver-friendly foods to incorporate into your daily diet: 1. Leafy greens Leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, which can help protect the liver from oxidative damage. A 2019 study found that the chlorophyll in leafy greens also have detoxifying properties, which can help reduce liver toxicity. 2. Garlic While the phrase 'there's no such thing as too much garlic' may not be strictly true, eating garlic does come with health benefits. Garlic contains sulfur compounds that improve liver enzyme activity, as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce oxidative stress in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, one study suggested. 3. Beetroot Bright red beetroot is known to help with high blood pressure, as it's rich with dietary nitrates. This root vegetable also contains betalains, a type of antioxidant, and compounds that may support liver detoxification by increasing the liver's production of detoxifying enzymes. 4. Turmeric Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A clinical trial published in the journal Hepatology showed that curcumin supplementation reduced liver inflammation in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. 5. Green tea A 2006 study, published in the International Journal of Molecular Medicine found that green tea extract improved liver function and reduced fat accumulation in the organ. This is believed to be thanks to the antioxidants called catechins that green tea is rich in. 6. Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables refer to vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower. They are rich in fibre and vitamins, as well as glucosinolates, which researchers believe stimulate the production of detoxifying enzymes in the liver and protect against oxidative damage. 7. Lentils and beans Experts often sing the praises of lentils and beans as a nutritious source of fibre and protein that is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. But that's not all – the high fibre content in lentils and beans can contribute to helping reduce liver fat accumulation and improving liver function. 8. Artichokes Researchers published a study in Phytotherapy Research that found artichoke extract, which contains cynarin, can aid in improving liver function. Cynarin is a compound known to stimulate bile production, which can helps with the detoxification process and protects liver cells. Read more about diet and nutrition: I'm a nutritionist on a budget and here's how I get my five-a-day for much less (Yahoo Life UK, 6-min read) 9 cheap, healthy and easy meal ideas with less than 6 ingredients (Yahoo Life UK, 9-min read) 5 ultra-processed foods you shouldn't stop eating (Yahoo Life UK, 5-min read)
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Chantelle Houghton shows off her incredible five stone weight loss in a plunging swimsuit as she enjoys a yoga class in Tenerife
Chantelle Houghton showed off her incredible weight loss in a plunging patterned swimsuit as she enjoyed a yoga class in Tenerife on Monday. The Celebrity Big Brother winner, 41, who has lost an impressive five stone, looked amazing in the daring purple one-piece while exercising in the sunshine. Chantelle was spotted stretching on a towel in a green space before going into the bird dog pose. Leaving her long dark tresses loose, she placed a pair of sunglasses on top of her head while working out on holiday. Earlier this year, Chantelle admitted that she is 'p***ed off' that people have accused her of taking Ozempic after her impressive five stone weight loss. The TV personality insisted she had 'never taken' the drug and instead put 'blood, sweat, and tears' into dropping the pounds. Chantelle first embarked on her weight loss transformation after reaching 13 stone following her 2021 split from ex-fiancé Michael Strutt and was relentlessly trolled for her weight. The TV personality used the negative comments as motivation and embarked on her weight loss journey that saw her drop an impressive five stone without stepping into a gym. Chantelle committed herself to a strict diet, avoiding processed foods and focusing on healthy eating but has since been accused of relying on weight loss drug Ozempic. She told The Sun: 'There was an article online not long ago, and the comments section was full of people saying, 'Ozempic, Ozempic. But I've never taken it. If I had, I'd happily admit it – I'm an open book. 'But I worked hard to lose that weight through blood, sweat, and tears, and it really p**sed me off that people dismissed my effort. I've had to learn to have thick skin and do what's best for me, but the comments did hurt.' Chantelle said she would never take the drug but warned people if they do turn to Ozempic to make sure it is 'from a legitimate source'. She continued: 'I personally wouldn't take it – things like that scare me – but I can understand why some people do. If you're going to use it, make sure it's from a legitimate source and not something dodgy. It's your body, and you have to do what feels right for you.' Previously Chanelle also said she had cut out alcohol from her diet because of the high sugar content as she gave an insight into her lifestyle overhaul. It comes as Chantelle has ruled out ever having cosmetic surgery again - despite being tempted after she gained three and a half stone during lockdown. She last went under the knife in 2016 when she had her breast implants removed, saying the original surgery was her 'biggest regret'. She previously told The Sun: 'When I had my breast implants removed completely, I knew that was my very last cosmetic surgery. I made a promise to myself I'd only go under the knife again for medical reasons.' In a recent interview with New magazine, Chantelle lifted the lid on her dating life and shared her dismay that 'only old men' are interested in her. She said: 'I'm open to meeting somebody. I'm not closed off from it, but I certainly haven't met anyone that I'd want to progress things with. 'I don't date, I'm not on any dating apps. If it's going to happen, it will happen naturally. But I've spent so much time on my own that I'm alright. 'I don't need someone to feel whole. I'm not trying to find my happiness in somebody else. I am happy on my own; if I meet someone, they're just going to add to that happiness. 'Don't get me wrong, I've had a few offers, but I've politely declined. Most of them are really old as well.' She said: 'But I worked hard to lose that weight through blood, sweat, and tears, and it really p**sed me off that people dismissed my effort' Chantelle shares her daughter Dolly, 12, with her ex-fiancé Alex, but their relationship broke down after claims he had been unfaithful in 2011. Alex and Chantelle have been far from amicable since their split, but have since moved on with their lives as Alex went on to have children with partner Nikki Manashe. Chantelle went on to get engaged to Michael Strut but the couple went their separate ways in 2021. She revealed in March that she's been celibate for the last two years following a string of disastrous relationships. The beauty said she has 'given up' looking for love due to the lack of 'gentlemen' in the world. The mother-of-one told The Sun: 'It's been about two years now and without sex I feel empowered, independent and free'. 'Chivalry appears to be dead and I'd much rather go through the rest of my life single than settle for someone who makes me miserable'. Back in 2006, Chantelle found love with Ordinary Boys singer Preston after meeting on Big Brother and admitted she was given almost £1million for their wedding interview. Since their split a year later, Chantelle has had a string of other high-profile relationships.
