Do you want to feel better, improve your mood, and have more energy throughout the day? Then look no further, because healthy eating can support achieving those things! But, eating healthy doesn’t have to mean boring salads all the time, it’s about making smart choices that nourish your body.
With that in mind, let’s dive into some tips that you can start implementing today to fuel your body with healthy and delicious foods.
Start with whole foods
Incorporating whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is the foundation of a healthy diet. I love trying out different fruits and experimenting with vegetable dishes. Sesame Kale has become one of my fav side dishes and it’s so simple to make! Anyway, whole foods provide your body with essential vitamins and minerals that can help you with feeling your best. Instead of reaching for processed foods, opt for whole foods that will provide you with more nutrients. Next time you go food shopping, add some colourful fruits and veggies to your basket or shopping trolley to contribute to your healthy eating journey.
Moderate your meat intake
Meat is a great source of protein, but it’s important to consume it in moderation. For example, eating too much red meat has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease and other health problems. Try opting for leaner proteins such as chicken or fish to help with healthy eating. Or, try adding other plant-based sources of protein to your diet like lentils, beans, and tofu. According to The Eatwell Guide, we should aim to eat at least 2 portions (2 x 140g) of fish every week, 1 of which should be oily, such as salmon, sardines or mackerel. Personally, I take breaks from eating meat now and again as there are times when it doesn’t agree with me.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Drinking water is crucial for your body to function properly. Making sure that you are drinking enough water throughout the day can help with digestion, skin health, and even boosting your mood. Try carrying a reusable water bottle with you to help you remember to drink water throughout the day – there are fab ones on Amazon. Also there are some brilliant apps out there that you can use to help you stay on track. The one I use is Waterlogged.
Plan your meals
Planning your meals ahead of time can help you make healthier choices and avoid reaching for unhealthy options when you’re hungry and in a hurry. Try taking some time at the beginning of the week to plan out your meals and snacks. This will not only help with healthy eating but will also save you time and money. I tend to meal prep on a Sunday and make enough healthy eating food to take me through to Thursday.
Indulge in moderation
A healthy diet doesn’t mean cutting out all your favourite foods. It’s all about balance and moderation. When I reviewed my diet, there were things I decided to remove and cut down on. For example, smaller portions of granola with coconut yoghurt, blueberries and a touch of honey and chia seed puddings for breakfast.
It’s okay to indulge in your favourite treats once in a while, but moderation is everything. Enjoying a piece of chocolate or a slice of pizza every once in a while won’t sabotage your healthy eating efforts. My all time favourite low calorie and fat dessert is by Alpro, Silky Smooth Chocolate Dessert. Seriously so delicious it’s ridiculous!
Healthy eating is about making smart choices that fuel your body with the nutrients it needs to feel its best. Incorporating whole foods, moderating your meat intake, staying hydrated, planning your meals, and indulging in moderation are all ways to promote a healthy lifestyle. Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or tasteless, experiment with new recipes (checkout the Whisk App) and ingredients to find what works for you. Remember to listen to your body and fuel it with the nutrients it needs. Start incorporating these healthy eating tips today and watch as you start feeling better and more energised!
How do you enjoy healthy eating?
Photo via Pexels by Nathan Cowley
