What to eat

YOUR diet can also help, says nutritionist Amanda Hamilton (amandahamilton.com). Soup has a low ‘kilojoule-density’, which means that it is light on calories in relation to its volume, so it is a great way to unlock fat loss. Eating soup with a spoon forces you to slow down, allowing your brain to signal satiety sooner. It’s also convenient to batch cook. Beating a midlife spread also means ditching the bread. Most people are a little insulin resistant in their 40’s, so reducing the intake of carbs can help redress the balance. Instead of bread, try adding a protein-based topping such as toasted chickpeas. Rinse, drain and dry canned chickpeas, toss them in a spice blend and bake until crispy.