Wanting to change your eating habits in 2017 but need a little help? We have some tips from the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention to help you with creating a healthy eating plan that is actually appealing and won’t stop you from eating your favorite foods!
Fruits and vegetables
While your favorite fruit may not be in season this time of year, try frozen or canned alternatives. Be mindful of the ingredients on canned fruit, however, because it may be packed with added sugars or syrups. Be sure that you have chosen a canned fruit that is in its own juice or is packaged without added sugars.
It’s also a fun idea to try a fruit you’ve never had before. Apples or bananas may be your favorite, but have you ever tried a mango or kiwi? You may be surprised by how much you enjoy this “different” fruit.
With vegetables, you may also enjoy a certain type that isn’t widely available this time of year. There are frozen and canned varieties you can try. Just be sure that you are choosing an item that doesn’t included added butter, cheese or oils.
Calcium-rich foods
Adding foods rich in calcium to your diet can help to improve your bone health and keep your waist slim. While you may think of drinking a glass of whole milk when you hear that you need to have dairy to add more calcium to your diet, there are actually a wide variety of items you can try as an alternative. There are low-calorie, no-sugar added yogurts available, as well as fat-free or low-fat milks.
Revise your favorite recipe
Everyone has a favorite meal that they could eat every day of the week, if possible. Consider revising this recipe and using herbs and spices instead of salt. You can also use grilled or baked chicken or fish instead of something breaded or fried. There are many simple changes you can do to your favorite dishes to make them healthier.
Don’t give up comfort food altogether
People who try to give up all of their favorite foods tend to eventually binge and gain weight when they get tired of never getting sweets and salty foods. Just be sure that you are balancing these comfort foods with healthier meals. You also need to be sure that you are getting enough exercise each day. Talk with your doctor to plan an exercise routine.
Get healthy and fit this year with a few changes to your diet and lifestyle.