Usually by spring, many of us have fallen short of our New Years Resolutions. Our good intentions take a back seat to our busy lives, stress, and multiple temptations. It's now time to get back on track and begin your journey to a better you!
1. Look for foods with the least amount of ingredients-
It's plain and simple--we eat too many processed foods. The key is getting back to foods in their most natural state. This will help insure that we are getting the most vitamins and minerals, as well as key nutrients like fiber. When looking at food labels, compare products and pick those with the fewest number of ingredients. Also, make sure that you understand the ingredients. If it sounds like you are reading an experiment from a chemistry class, then stay away from that food.
2. Get up and move-
For most people, exercise is the hardest thing to keep consistent. It's easy to get away from an exercise routine when it's too cold outside, your kids are sick, or when you have to put in long hours at the office. But the key to weight loss is getting movement often throughout the day. Park farther away, take the stairs, drive less, dance in your living room--it really doesn't matter, as long as you get up and move. Active movement, along with an exercise routine, will help keep your metabolism moving in the right direction.
3. Eat colorful foods-
When picking foods in the produce section, think color! It's important to get a variety of foods in your diet and by varying the color of fruits and vegetables you eat, you will gain important vitamins and minerals. There are a rainbow of choices in your fresh produce aisle and, to be cost efficient, you can pick frozen fruits and vegetables when fresh is not in season.
4. Cook at home-
When there are healthy, nutritious meals available at home you are more likely to skip the fast food counter. Invest in a couple of good cookbooks, or check some out at your local library and get cooking. You can control the ingredients and portions when you prepare food from home. Homemade foods taste better and are usually lower in sodium and fat. If time is an issue, use a crock-pot or prepare large portions of stews, soups and casseroles during a day off.
5. Use meat as a side dish
You may feel that your whole meal revolves around your meat. A serving of meat for most people is about 3-4 ounces, or about the size of your computer mouse. It's important to re-think your meal and use meat as a side dish and focusing on loading your plate with more lower calorie vegetables. Since meats are the most expensive items in your grocery cart, by eating smaller portions you will save money and lose weight!
About the Blogger:
Heather is a Registered Dietitian and licensed provider of Real Living Nutrition. Learn more about her here.
