Learning to eat healthy can be so hard. There is so much information out there about what’s good for you and what’s not. Going to the grocery store can be overwhelming too. There are so many brands with labels telling you something is healthy for you even when it’s not. Top that off with what’s healthy for someone else may not be for you.
It’s all so overwhelming that you just want to say forget it, I’m going the easy route.
I felt this way when I first started my health and wellness journey. I had no idea what to eat or not eat. Sure, fruits, vegetables, and protein, that’s easy but how much of each thing and what about all the other stuff like grains and dairy. Were those good for me? Seems like everyone had a different opinion of what was good for you and what wasn’t.
In the end, I’ve learned that the answer to the question “What should I eat?” is that it depends. Every body is different and we need to be mindful of what our individual body needs and doesn’t need.
Photo by olenayeromenkophotos on Canva
It doesn’t have to be so hard. Sure, at first there’s a lot to learn and you have to put some time into it, but it gets easier the more you do it. Following these 8 tips is a great way to get started on your journey to a healthier you.
- Make a meal plan
Make a plan for the week or a few days (depending on how often you shop). This helps you stick to it and can help save a little money by using ingredients in more than one meal rather than throwing them out. Your meal plan should include all meals including snacks. - Use shopping lists
Create a list using your meal plan before going to the grocery store. Be sure to stick to the list while at the store. Not having junk food in the house is super helpful but be sure to have some snacks to fulfill those cravings. You might also consider not going all in at the beginning. Completely depriving yourself of the foods you love could backfire. Remember, moderation is key! - Use healthy substitutes
Cauliflower rice in place of white rice, almond or other non-dairy milks as opposed to dairy milk, or honey as a sweetener. There are so many ways to make a recipe healthier. Have a little fun creating your own recipes. - Beware of processed foods that claim to be healthy
Take the time to look at the ingredients when buying something in a box, can, or bag. Sometimes there are so many unknown ingredients it almost doesn’t seem like food. Many things have a healthier option, try finding one that works or even better, learn to make it at home. - Review the restaurant menu
Check out the menu and decide what you’re ordering before you even get there. You don’t want to order something unhealthy because you’re rushed to make a decision, or you make a bad choice because everyone at the table is talking about how amazing something is. - Drink lots of water
Use a tracking water bottle or like me, put 4 bottles of water on the counter as a reminder and a way to track. - Slow down
There’s a bit of a delay between when your stomach is full, and when your brain realizes it’s full. So, slow down to prevent overeating. - Pay attention to your body
Pay attention to how you feel while you’re eating and after you eat. Consider a journal to track how you feel. This can help you determine whether something just isn’t good for you and maybe you need to eliminate it for a while.
This all seems like a lot of work, and it can be. Starting small with the easier tips then when you get to the tougher stuff like healthy replacements consider recreating only one of your meals with healthier ingredients then build from there.
Eating healthier has so many benefits including getting more nutrients which gives you more energy, lose or maintain weight, and live a longer healthier life.
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