Journey to Eating Healthier
There are many reasons people decide to start eating healthier. If you have made the decision, then you might be confused about where to begin. The good news is that it is easier than you may think. While there are a variety of articles and books devoted to the topic of healthier eating, they are not required for making your first steps.
Think about your current diet
Most everyone already has a favorite fruit or vegetable. You will want to focus on increasing those types of foods, while slowly decreasing any junk food you may be eating. You can start by making sure at least half of your meals are fruits and vegetables. Consider the types of grains you eat. Make an effort to eat whole grains. Rolled oats, brown rice or quinoa are excellent choices.
When it comes to eating meat, it is all about protein. You can improve your diet by eating poultry or ground beef labeled 90 percent or more lean. You can also receive protein from beans and rice. Dairy products are often a favorite. If you enjoy dairy, look for fat-free or low-fat options.
Determine the amount of saturated fat you are currently consuming. You should avoid saturated fats; so, make an effort to begin reducing foods with this fat type. Don’t forget to consider what you are drinking. It is best to minimize soda and other sugary drinks. Water is your best option.
Make changes in increments
Many people start with great intentions when they choose to start eating healthier. Unfortunately, it is also common to find that when people begin, they try to make too many changes at once or they become discouraged when they cheat. Make a choice not to be too hard on yourself or too critical. If you start with making just one adjustment to your diet, the next change will be easier to incorporate.
When you make an effort to track what you eat, you will find that eating healthier will become much easier. Set a few goals for yourself. For example, you could make your first goal of reducing foods with saturated fats beginning day one. After a week, you will have a second goal to increase whole grains. Start small and work toward success.
Variety is key
It is important that you eat a variety of foods. Many foods by themselves will contain vitamins you need, but lack other vitamins. A good way to ensure you are eating a variety is to look at the colors of your foods. If you like red grapes and red apples, start eating green grapes and green apples.
Each food group offers a variety of choices within it. Take the time to rotate between as many different options as you can. Maintaining a variety of different foods will help ensure you are receiving all the required nutrients, and help prevent your diet from becoming mundane.
Some final thoughts
Eating healthier is always a positive choice. The benefits range from feeling better, being stronger and feeling more comfortable in your body. Take note of the right foods you already enjoy, and start eating more of those foods. Have a plan and go step-by-step. It is okay to make mistakes, remain committed to getting back on track. The longer you do this, the easier your healthier diet will become to maintain. Take chances, like eating new foods. Different foods bring more options and cultivate the diet you ultimately desire.
Article written by Mikkie Mills, a freelance writer from Chicago. She is also a mother of two who loves sharing her ideas on interior design, budgeting hacks, DIY and healthy habits. When she isn’t writing, she is chasing the little ones around or can be found rock climbing at the local climbing gym.
This article was written by the guest author listed at the end of the article.
This article was written by the guest author listed at the end of the article.