“I can only compare these great aquatic forests with the terrestrial ones in the intertropical region. Yet if in any country a forest was destroyed, I do not believe nearly so many species of animals would perish as would here, from the destruction of the kelp. Amidst the leaves of this plant numerous species of fish live which nowhere else could find food or shelter.”
CHARLES DARWIN
1 June 1834, Tierra Del Fugo,Chile
The number of carbohydrates you consume each day determines your daily calorie needs. You need to consume at least 2000 calories a day if you want to maintain your current bodyweight.
We are a community of scientists, storytellers, journalists and filmmakers who are dedicated to raising awareness of the beauty and ecological importance of South Africa’s kelp forest.
If you are trying to lose weight, then it is recommended that you reduce your carbohydrate intake from the usual amount of 200 grams that most people eat daily down to 100 grams. This can be done easily enough, by taking away the carbohydrates from your food, or using an automated carb counter to do it for you.
Carbohydrate rich foods have been linked to weight gain due to their effect on insulin. High insulin levels promote storing of excess calories as fat, rather than burning them. To lose weight, it is recommended that you eat foods that have a low glycemic index. Foods like nuts, seeds and some fibrous vegetables contain a lot of fiber, which has a positive effect on insulin levels. Fiber also makes you feel full for longer, which reduces the likelihood that you will eat more food later in the day.
Over the last decades kelp forests have declined as much as
40%
98%
of the marine territory surrounding South Africa has been earmarked for mining
5%
of South Africa’s oceans are protected with a global promise to increase to 10% by 2020
The scientific recommendation for protected oceans is
30%
by 2030
Why protect the Great African Sea Forest?
There are certain tips and techniques that can help you in your quest to shed those extra pounds. Don’t skip meals. Eat at least one meal with every three snacks. The three meals should be spread throughout the day, but try not to eat a big lunch. They can raise your insulin levels, making it harder to lose weight. Stay away from foods that promote weight gain Eliminate or limit foods like sugar, refined flours and fast food. Know what you are eating and avoid processed foods as much as possible.
Eating lots of complex carbohydrates in the morning and the evening can prevent your body from going into starvation mode, which helps in the long-term weight control. Anything you eat in between must be protein rich.
Choose lean meat, fish, legumes, nuts, eggs, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products as your main source of lean protein. Try to choose whole foods whenever possible, because they contain fiber and other nutrients that help with weight loss.