Switch Out These Unhealthy Foods Now
By Stepy Kamei
The food you eat on a regular basis is the main determining factor in just how much energy you have to get through the day to come. It should make sense that the more nutritious and healthy your meals and snacks are, the more energy and fuel you'll have to burn each day. Unfortunately, in today's hectic world, it's all too easy and common to regularly choose fast and convenient foods at the expense of our nutritional health. If you're looking to start taking better care of your health and well-being, your dietary habits are a great place to start making improvements. Nutritional experts recommend that, if you're having trouble cutting out unhealthy foods entirely and making sweeping changes to your dietary plan, it may help to simply swap out unhealthy food choices with similar foods that are simply better for you. Here are some easy and simple substitutions you can start making right away to improve your diet.
Sodas and Sugary Beverages
You may be surprised to learn how detrimental certain common drinks can be to your overall health and wellness. For instance, soda is a common beverage, yet it offers absolutely no nutritional value. Instead, it provides tons of sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and other additives that simply spike blood sugar levels to unhealthy levels.
Instead, try replacing soda with flavored seltzer water, or even sparkling water with fresh fruit for a natural dose of sweetness. Kombucha is another great option, and it's loaded with probiotics, which improve gut health.
White Bread
It's common to use white bread in all sorts of snacks and meals. You may have toast in the morning, or a sandwich for lunch, using white bread. Unfortunately, this type of bread is usually stripped of its nutrients and packed with preservatives and even sugar instead, in order to extend its shelf life. Make the switch to whole wheat, Ezekiel, or whole grain bread instead. These types of bread still contain fiber and other essential minerals such as iron, which will help keep you feeling fuller longer.
Candy and Sweets
It's always tempting to indulge in candy, cookies, or other sweets. In moderation, this is generally alright, but it's better to swap out sugary sweets with healthier alternatives instead. For instance, using honey as a natural sweetener is a much better alternative than refined sugar, which only increases inflammation in the body and throws blood sugar levels off balance. Try substituting candy and cookies after dinner for a whole fat yogurt parfait with fresh berries and a honey drizzle for something sweet and nutritious.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Burlington, Mass.