Balanced Diet, Balanced Life
By Donna Stark
In many parts of our day to day life, balance is hard to come by. Whether it be finding the proper ratio of coffee to creamer or figuring out how to manage kids and work, balance is something we all strive for ... we just don't always attain it, do we? And that's OK, because many things tend to work themselves out anyway. But if there is one thing in your life that should always remain balanced, no matter how chaotic your days are, that one thing is your diet. Here's why.
Balancing Your Diet
Having a balanced diet provides more than just an extra vitamin or two. It also helps to fuel your body, fight off disease, enhance brain power, and give you a better night's rest. Here are some tips on how to keep your diet balanced, even when life throws a bunch of curveballs your way.
Fill Half of Your Plate Fruits and Vegetables
Vegetables and fruits are a great source of fiber, minerals, and vitamins, so throw some more in your cart and bring them home to fill your dinner plate. This food group can help you maintain a healthy body weight, keep your digestive system regular, and strengthen your bones. Just be sure to choose deep, rich, colorful vegetables for the most nutrition.
Replace Half of Your Grains Whole Grains
Making a simple switch to whole grains can provide you with many more benefits than sticking with those refined ones. Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal are packed with the essential vitamins, nutrients, and fiber that the body needs to stay healthy, so give them a try! You may end up loving them.
Pick Lean Protein Foods
Protein is a crucial part of the body's repair system and including it in your diet is vital, however, some meat-based proteins contain high levels of saturated fat and you may want to avoid them. By varying your source of protein and choosing leaner options instead, such as chicken, turkey, seafood, and tofu, you can continue to give your body what it needs while decreasing the number of calories and total fat consumed.
Control Portion Size
Do you typically eat with your eyes instead of your stomach? Controlling what you eat can be difficult at times, but there is a way you can be more successful at it. Just be mindful of your portions! Portion control is a great way to maintain a balanced diet and still be able to eat nutrient-dense, heart-healthy foods.
Balanced Diet, Balanced Life
Your new balanced diet can open the door to so many health benefits that you may even be able to find balance in other areas of your life as well! Sound exciting? You bet it is, so start today and watch what you put on your dinner plate!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Las Vegas, Nev.