Healthy eating can feel unattainable or high-maintenance. Here are three simple ways to make it achievable.
1. Plan and Prepare: Create a list that includes produce, whole grains, beans, and other staples. Make sure your food prepping is done ahead of time, so you are more inclined to stick with it. Use the prepped ingredient to cook recipes at home. Remember to control portion sizes and calorie intake—voilà, a meal in your hands! Choose fruits and vegetables as your primary snack. Make sure to wash and slice fruits or vegetables beforehand so they are easy to access when you feel that 3pm hunger.
2. Make Smart Choices at Meal Time: Fill half your plate while eating the main course, and make fruits and vegetables part of every meal. The main parts should include whole grains like brown rice, oats, and whole-wheat over white flour products. Swap bad fats with plant based oils like olive oil instead of butter.
3. Cut Back on Extras: Drink water and skip sugary sodas or sweet drinks. While planning and preparing, check labels for added sugars and high sodium content, especially in packaged foods. Use smaller plates or bowls to avoid eating more than you need.
Sources:
https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/healthy-eating-plate/
https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/features/healthy-eating-tips.html
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/lifes-essential-8/how-to-eat-better-fact-sheet
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/K0F72nbFQqc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7b8lfonsYA&t=14
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/eating-healthy-on-a-budget
