You can’t rely on will power alone. Habits, systems, and being organized will go a long way to help you look and feel your best. I focus on feeling the best, because looking a certain way may not motivate you. Emphasizing adding more fruits and vegetables will help create the foundation of a healthier diet. You want to set yourself up for success. Here are some practical suggestions:
- Leave a bowl of fruit on the counter so it’s easy to grab an easy snack.
- Always have a piece of fruit or pre-cut veggies in your bag as a go-to-snack.
- Plan a daily salad at lunch or dinner. Some people like breakfast salad.
- Meal plan so you’re not deciding what to eat at 4 p.m. Even planning what you want to order ahead of time at a restaurant will help you stay intentional about eating. You can always call and ask questions if you don’t feel comfortable speaking to the waiter, but most of the time, they are accommodating since everyone has food sensitivities these days.
- Create greater awareness around eating habits. Asking yourself why you’re reaching for an unhealthy snack at the same time each day. Become a detective so you can figure out what healthier eating means to you and what that looks like. Your body is unique, so learn how to give your body what she needs.
- Reduce sugary drinks including soda and juice which will remove sneaky pounds and inflammation
- Have a positive mindset. Instead of feeling that you are constantly depriving yourself, Think of all the benefits of healthier eating including more energy, better health/less illness, or ability to be there for others. People talk about dieting as torture and that’s not the mindset that will sustain you over the long term.
- Don’t skip meals. When you skip an important meal such as breakfast, you end up eating more later in the day. Taking a couple of bites of toast will keep off the morning munchies.
Empower yourself to take the best care of yourself so you can take care of the people and priorities that are important to you.
