Whether you’re looking to slim down or tone up, a well-rounded diet is crucial to the success of your health goals. Of course, changing your food regimen means shifting your entire mindset, which can be difficult for even the most committed among us. Consider the following tips when beginning your health journey:
- Focus on replacement versus elimination. Completely cutting out something that you love is setting yourself up for failure. Trade greasy chips for home-cut fries and a fatty burger for a sizzling steak. While we love dedication, deprivation is neither an effective tool for weight loss nor a fair way to treat your body.
- Drink water. Replace soda and sugary juices with water and tea. Hydration is key to the proper functioning of your entire body.
- Incorporate more healthy fruits and vegetables. Challenge yourself to eating at least one fruit or vegetable with each meal and snack. Sautee spinach and feta with your scrambled eggs, toss mango and pineapple with your salsa, or whip up a berry and yogurt smoothie to sip on your way to work. In this day and age, there’s no excuse not to get your fill!
At the end of the day, you really are what you eat. From your arteries and veins to emotions and mood, the nutrients in your diet dictate the health of both your brain and your body. Reach out to friends for support and professionals for guidance. You can do this.