Making Nutrition a Priority

By Donna Stark

Do you prioritize your nutrition? And be honest here. Like, really honest. Because ordering that salad in the drive-thru once a week certainly doesn't cut it. What I am talking about is whether or not you take all the necessary steps to plan, shop, prepare, and cook the majority of your meals. Or, do you notice yourself only taking those steps if you have the time or if the mood strikes you at a particular moment? If you find that you are ordering more of your meals through a microphone than making your own, it may be time to rethink your nutrition goals.

Making Your Nutrition a Priority

Getting on top of your nutrition may sound easy enough on paper, but really, doesn't everything sound easy on paper? Usually it does, because what's written on that sheet of paper doesn't include what actually occurs in real life. Things like late-nights at work, an extra part-time job, children's schedules, laundry ... every little, or big, responsibility that we have to manage from one day to the next is exactly what distracts us from keeping our nutrition a priority. So what can be done about that? Well, let's take a look at some helpful tips.

• Don't skip meals - Skipping meals can slow your metabolism, raise the risk of diabetes, lower energy levels, boost fat storage, and lead to cravings and overeating later in the day. Make it a point to eat nutritious meals throughout the day, and if for any reason you have to skip one, be sure to pack a healthy snack as an alternative.
• Cook your meals - Maybe you don't have the time to cook or perhaps you don't enjoy your time in the kitchen at all, but regardless of what it is, there is hope! Cooking your own meals is a great way to gauge how much nutrition you are actually receiving, so try to incorporate it into your daily or weekly routine as much as you can. Start with simple meals if you don't like to cook, prep your ingredients on the weekends, or have backup options that can be taken advantage of ready to go in the freezer.
• Lose the stress - Stress can be a major distraction in life, especially so when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet. Stress can lead to bad choices, emotional eating, and interrupted schedules. It's important to take the necessary steps that will help you keep those stress levels low, or at the very least, better managed.

Feeding Your Body Well

If you want to start living a healthier life, the easiest way to begin is with the food you eat. So take the time to start prioritizing your nutrition and create a plan of action today! You won't regret doing so.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Hillsboro, Ore.