This January, when you are asked what your New Year’s resolution is, you can confidently state that you plan to create healthy habits into your eating and exercise routines.
Many times, eating better and exercising more are resolutions that last no more than a couple of months into the year. However, when you have the right mindset and the best formula for creating healthy habits, you can rest assure that you will meet your goals.
If you are looking to lose weight this year, there are several changes you can make to your diet and lifestyle. The best way to begin your weight loss journey is downsizing. Of course, you need your daily nutrients, but you don’t need large portions. Instead of eating three large meals a day, try eating more meals of less food. You need plenty of fruits, vegetables, protein, grains, and other nutrients.
Throw out the junk food and substitute unhealthy meals for healthier choices. This doesn’t mean you have to force yourself to hate tasty foods. Instead, cook with different ingredients, learn to cook your favorite restaurant meals using fresh ingredients, and avoid processed foods.
In addition to changing your eating routine from three large meals a day to between five and six a day, downsize the plates and bowls you use. This seems extreme, but it is effective. You can only fit so much food onto a smaller plate. This will help you in portion control. Because you are eating more frequently throughout the day, you won’t be as hungry anyway.
Anther trick that will help you establish healthy habits for the New Year is exercise. Eating right and exercising regularly go hand in hand. But did you know that simple changes to your daily routine can make a drastic difference in how your body behaves? For example, if you get 30 minutes of activity each day, you will notice that your body is more energized and toned.
Thirty minutes can be broken into five minute increments of walking through the parking lot, taking the stairs, vacuuming, cleaning the house, and other daily tasks. Along with getting enough daily activity, you need to be conscious of what you put in your body. Fast food services, restaurants, and most frozen foods are filled with sodium. And surveys have proven that Americans are getting almost double the recommended limit of sodium.
Too much sodium can lead to heart disease, water retention, high blood pressure, and many more health risks. Take preventative measures this year and be conscious of what you are consuming. What is quick and easy to whip up in the kitchen is not always the best for your health.
To ensure that you eat right and exercise regularly, set aside time in your day for cooking and working out. With designated times for shopping and cooking a healthy meal, you are more apt to stick with your New Year resolution. Similarly, if you make it a point to park further away or set aside thirty minutes for jogging through the neighborhood, you will see the results of your hard work.
