Live Below the Line and Nutrition?

Today Rebecca Gawthorne is answering all of our burning nutrition questions about Live Below the Line! She’s an accredited practising dietitian and an accredited nutritionist. Via her blog and instagram she’s been dubbed one of Australia's most powerful influencers in the online health & fitness space!

Q: How would you recommend getting enough protein on a $2 budget?

A: This is where lentils and beans become super important in your diet. Lentils & beans are a great source of protein, so grab a few tins for the week. You can usually get these for less than $1.

Q: How important are good quality carbs when I’m living on $2 per day?

A: Choosing quality carbs that have a low GI (Glycemic index) are important for Live Below the Line as they will help you stay fuller for longer and have more energy throughout the day. Quality carbs include whole grains like wholemeal bread, brown rice and even brown pasta. It might be hard with the budget but you’re better off avoiding white bread & choosing wholegrain instead.

Q: Fresh or frozen vegetables? 

A: Frozen vegetables in Australia are actually a really healthy alternative to fresh vegetables. Fresh is prefered, however when you’re on a $2 per day budget, buying a larger quantity of frozen vegetables will be much more cost effective.

Q: I’m scared I’ll be hungry during Live Below The Line. Can you suggest filling foods?

A: If you choose cheap, filling carbohydrates that contain fibre, you should be able to keep full. I recommend buying oats, beans & lentils. These are are high fibre, low GI foods that will keep you feeling fill for a long time.

Q: What are your tips for Live Below The Line if I play sport?

A: Ensure you get plenty of protein, water, carbohydrates and an adequate salt intake. Salt is really important to ensure proper hydration when playing sports due to the fluid lost through sweating.

Q: If I feel tired during Live Below The Line. Do you have any tips or food suggestions that could help boost my energy levels and focus? 

A: It’s super important you keep hydrated!! Drink plenty of water, include carbohydrates (like oats, lentils, rice, potatoes) & don’t forget your fruit.

Q: How do I deal with my caffeine addiction whilst I’m on Live Below The Line? 

A: For a week or two leading up to the challenge, begin to cut down your caffeine intake. And if you really need to, you can factor in some cheap instant coffee into your $2 budget. 

Q: I don’t usually cook, how can I do Live Below The Line?

A: This is a great time to learn!! With you $2 per day budget, the meals you cook will be quite basic and easy, so its the perfect time to work on those cooking skills. The staples including oats, pasta and rice are super easy to cook and there will also be a tonne of recipes on the Live Below the Line website that will guide you step by step in becoming a Live Below the Line gourmet chef!

Want more from Rebecca? Check out her instagram (@nourish_naturally) and her blog rebeccagawthorne.com.au!

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This post was orginially published on Rebecca's blog, rebeccagawthorne.com.au

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