We asked you recently what the hardest part about moving towards a healthy lifestyle is. 100% of the answers we received had something to do with maintaining a healthy diet. Today, we are going to share six helpful tips you can use to stay on track while building healthy eating habits.
First, you need to remember that healthy eating is not about the number on the scale. It is about feeling good, NOT looking good. A healthy diet will provide your body with the nutrition it needs so that you can have the energy and health to be able to live life to the fullest.
Second, know and acknowledge your personality type. This is so important! If you are the kind of person who hates routine and is very free-spirited, then you will probably not be able to stick to a meal plan for longer than one day. If this is you, skip to number three below for some more tips! However, if you have a “type A” personality (meaning you strive on structure and routine), then you probably love meal planning, right? If this is you then click here to read our other blog post, Progress Not Perfection, where we talk about why you should be focused on your successes and not get discouraged when setbacks occur. You will probably relate to and benefit from that post as well.
Third, think food groups. We need certain food groups incorporated into our diet every day in order to achieve optimal nutrition. These food groups include protein, healthy carbs, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. There is an enormous number of options available in each group. When making your grocery list, make sure to buy a variety of options from each group. Then when you are planning your meal, you can let your creativity run wild! Also, make sure to always have items on hand for some healthy go-to meals that your family enjoys in case you need a back-up dinner, or a consistent easy breakfast option!
Fourth, pack your lunch. Lunch time is a crazy time of day. Make is easy on yourself and plan this meal beforehand. Don’t forget to choose items from each of the food groups above. To make it even easier, have a couple different lunch options ready for that week and rotate through them.
Fifth, make “healthy snack” decisions at the grocery store. Chose snacks that are easy to grab-and-go. Fruit and snack bars packed with nuts and dried fruit are great options! This way you are prepared if you get hungry when out and about.
And finally, “adjust” meals you already love. Think of ways you can get the most nutrition out of that dish, and add more veggies! For example, if you are making chili, throw in some extra bell peppers and serve fruit as a side. Always remember to resort back to your food group list.
Healthy eating is just one part of healthy living. There are 4 main areas in our lives that we need to focus on when we are trying to live a healthier lifestyle. We made an exact guide with steps you can take in all these areas to move towards a healthier you, and we are giving it to you for FREE! Download it HERE now.