“Eat healthier food” usually crops up in January as part of one’s resolutions for the New Year. But you don’t need to wait for another full year before changing and improving your food choices. And there’s no better time to start a healthier diet than Nutrition Month, right?
Here are some tips on improving your diet and overall health this March and beyond.
-
Creative Reminders
Let’s face it: in today’s fast-paced world, it’s quite easy to forget things, especially things that are quite new to our routines – like a new diet plan.
But small things can help you out and help you stay on your new diet. This includes taking down notes and sticking them on your fridge, setting reminders with loud alarms on your phone, or wearing a personalized bracelet with a message in big, bold letters. You can even get a friend or family member to send you a daily text message if needed. Whatever method you choose, it’s best to always have something or someone to remind you of your goals.
-
Don’t Ride the Fads
Just because the Paleo Diet worked for your best friend doesn’t mean it will be as effective for you, too. There are a lot of factors that come into play when it comes to your diet, including underlying health conditions like hypertension and diabetes. It’s better to consult a health expert first before you dive headlong into a diet plan. Not only would you get a clearer picture of your physical wellbeing, you’ll most likely receive a plan that’s best for you.
-
Plan and Stick to Your Grocery List
When you go to the supermarket without a shopping list, you’re more prone to impulse buying and end up purchasing items that aren’t necessarily good for you. Avoid temptation by writing listing down healthy food for your grocery run and by visiting only the aisles that contain what’s on your list. You can also familiarize yourself with the layout of your neighborhood grocery store so you can go straight to the shelves that contain what you need.
-
Vary Your Food
The more colorful your plate, the healthier it is. Always include an array of fruits and vegetables to your meals not only to keep it healthy and appetizing. After all, it’s always helpful to keep your meal times interesting so you won’t get bored with your diet plan. After all, you’ll have an easier time sticking to it if you like what you eat.
-
Develop New Habits and Reinforce Them
It’s said to take 21 days to form a new habit. Keep track of your diet plan using your own method, be it through a calendar or a through custom-made accessories to make it more personal and therefore more worthwhile. Once you’ve developed a new, healthy habit, you can gradually add more healthy habits until you reach all your fitness goals. Monitor and reward each achievement to keep yourself motivated.
-
Say NO to Skipping Meals
It’s not wise to skip meals, as this will only end up making you hungrier. What’s better is to consult a professional on the ideal number of calories you have to consume based on your weight, height, and age. Then, start portioning your meals throughout the day so you only eat that specific amount. If you’re the type to feel hunger more often, try smaller meals with snacks in between; just remember to still follow the correct portions.
Are you ready to be a healthier, better version of you? Turn over a new leaf today, and begin eating a more nutritious diet through these simple tips.