Healthy Eating Can Be Easy

By Donna Stark

It's the new year, and if you are looking to make some lifestyle changes that will improve your overall well-being, you have probably resolved to exercise more. But, as important as physical activity is to your overall health and wellness, sticking to a healthier diet may be even more essential. Fortunately, all the major holidays are over now, so there's really no excuse left to not eat clean and healthy ... unless you are starting to feel overwhelmed. And if you are, just take a look at the following tips. They are sure to make the process of healthy eating much easier for you.

Figure Out the Why

Do you know why you should be eating healthier and why you should be leaving those bags of chips and cookies at the grocery store? Eating clean, nutrient-dense foods can help reduce your risk of developing serious medical conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. It can also help improve your skin, boost your energy, and decrease inflammation.

Start With Baby Steps

Our bodies don't like drastic changes, so do yourself a favor and start with baby steps. Remember, small changes can lead to big gains! Here are some ideas to get you started.

• Take your time to eat
• Drink more water
• Reduce your sugar intake
• Make healthy breakfasts
• Eliminate fast and processed food

Choose the Right Foods

Whole, natural foods are exactly what you need to be adding to your diet after you take out all the junk. Filled with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, they will be sure to give your body everything it needs. So, the next time you are at the grocery store, start thinking about what you can replace. Can you buy a bag of apples instead of that bag of chips? Can you choose a piece of salmon instead of that frozen pizza? You get the point. Your cart should be full of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and heart-healthy fats by the time you are done shopping.

Drink the Right Beverages

Speaking of replacing things while shopping, go ahead and put those bottles of soda back on the shelf too. It's time to stop drinking your calories and filling your body with refined sugar! Choose water, green juice, or unsweetened tea instead.

A Better Diet for a Better Year

The idea of healthy eating may seem daunting at first, but it's actually easier than you think. Just give your body some time to adjust to the new diet and stick with it! There's no better way to improve your overall health and the quality of your life!

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