Jump-Start Your Diet This Spring
By Rachel Carver
Cooler winter temperatures can cause us to spend more time indoors. More indoor time often means tasty stews and chilis. Combining heavy foods with less exercise can make us ready for a change as spring approaches.
If you are feeling sluggish but don't know where to start, don't worry. All it takes is a few adjustments to get your diet back on track this spring.
Start Now
Sometimes the hardest part of making a change is getting started. Starting sooner rather than later will make progress come quicker.
Plan Your Meals
Coming home after a long day at the office can leave you starving. You're more likely to make unhealthy meal choices if you have no idea what to cook for dinner. Find a day with time to make your grocery list and plan the weekly menu. Dedicating time to meal prep in advance will help you stick to your plan when life gets hectic.
Start With One Meal
You know you eventually want to eat healthier meals. But trying to completely change everything right away can feel daunting. Life can also change your plans. Start by prioritizing healthy lunches. Prep them in advance so you can easily grab lunch as you walk out the door. Once you have one healthy meal established, you might find it easier to implement your approach across the rest of your day.
Focus on Adding
Many diets focus on eliminating certain foods such as carbs. But telling yourself you are done eating chocolate if you love chocolate will probably not end well. This approach can cause you to overeat other foods because of your cravings. You also might eat the entire chocolate bar instead of just one piece when you do give into your cravings.
Incorporate healthy foods into your meals and snacks. Enjoy your ice cream but follow it up with a salad for dinner. Order your favorite burger, but substitute the fries for steamed veggies. This approach allows you to eat your favorite foods while still getting plenty of veggies and other healthier options.
Find a Partner
Chances are someone you know also wants to eat healthier. A partner can keep you accountable to the goals you set. Exchange recipes with a friend. Divide cooking and shopping duties with your spouse. Bring healthier food options to family gatherings. And share your successes and failures. Sometimes we all need someone to listen and provide encouragement.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Temple, Tex.