A Healthy Diet Is the Way to Go!
By Donna Stark
When the topic of diets comes up in conversation, many people automatically assume the discussion is about weight loss but there is so much more to talk about than just those few pounds you want to lose. Your diet plays a much bigger role in your life than that. It directly impacts your overall physical, mental, and emotional health so you need to make sure it is above par! But how can you ensure that you are on the right path when it comes to what you eat? Here are some ideas to get you started.
Keep Track of What You Consume
If you really want to turn your diet into a healthy one, you have to know exactly what you are eating, so start logging everything you consume. This includes all your meals, snacks, and beverages, but don't forget the little bits of extra food you eat too! Things like your toddler's leftovers and treats from the office candy bowl have to be counted as well. Here are some reasons why keeping track of your food is helpful.
- You can see the areas that need improvement
- You can determine if you are getting adequate nutrition
- You can track calories, sodium, and sugar intake
Cook at Home More Often
Yes, takeout is more convenient when your week is busy, but it is also harder to monitor exactly what you are eating. By cooking your meals at home, you can control the ingredients that are used which can help lower the number of calories and fat you consume. It can also help you maintain healthier levels of sodium and sugar which is critical for optimal health and wellness.
Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods
Over-the-counter vitamins and supplements can play an important role in your life but there is nothing better than giving your body the nutrition it needs through whole, natural foods. Be sure to fill your meals with plenty of deeply hued vegetables and fruit, whole grains, lean proteins, and heart-healthy fats, and stay away from processed foods as much as you can. Make a goal to drink the recommended amount of water every day too!
Watch for Signs
Eating healthier food may help you drop some pounds but that magic number on the scale isn't the only sign to look for. A healthy diet can also increase your energy, clear your skin, improve your moods, encourage better sleep, and reduce the number of doctor visits you need to make, so keep an eye out for those signs as well!
A Healthy Diet Is the Way to Go!
With just a few, simple modifications to your daily lifestyle, you can create a healthier diet for yourself and your loved ones. And a healthier diet will always lead to a healthier body!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Raleigh, N.C.