You’re not alone if you’ve made a new Goal to become healthier and build good eating habits. Since New Year’s resolutions come in many shapes and sizes, many of us sit down in December and decide that this year would be the year we genuinely commit to eating healthier and more intelligently.
Secondly, we’re going to cut down on sugar, improve portion management, eat more fruits and vegetables, and quit eating a pint of ice cream right before night. Even if you mean it, if you don’t have a solid plan and strategy in place, your resolutions are likely to fail.
You’re already on the right track if you consider January with the mindset that you need to change your habits, not just a crash diet to lose weight quickly. Here are some simple changes you can make to your eating habits to help you reach your goal faster.
1. Never go hungry
We’ve all been there. We get caught up in work, kids, or whatever else is keeping us occupied and we forget to eat on time. Never go hungry just because you are busy. Make a schedule and go with that flow.
When we’re hungry, we give in to unhealthy cravings or overeat because our brains are telling us to eat. You can avoid this by planning meals and snacks throughout the day.
2. Drink a lot of water
You should stay hydrated all day, not just when it’s hot outside or when you’re working out at the gym. You must intake enough water and download a mobile app to check how much you’re drinking. If you consume a lot of sugary drinks, try switching to unsweetened seltzer water.
3. Making a “Good” and “Bad” Food List
All items must be placed on the table in order to maintain a long-term “diet.” The goal is to make the majority of your diet healthy — lots of vegetables, lean protein, and acacia fiber — so that you have room for a doughnut, a whole-milk cappuccino, or a piece of very nice cheese.
4. Find more effective stress management techniques
Many people have developed a terrible habit of stress eating. You’ll gradually quit turning to food for comfort if you find other ways to cope with stress. Find anything other than food to help you offload your stress, whether it’s reading a good book, getting a manicure, cooking, going for a run, or whatever else helps you unwind and refocus.
5. Keep leftovers in the fridge
Make enough food for an extra meal or two so you can store leftovers in the fridge. Thus when you’re hungry and short on time, you can opt for them instead of fast food.
Final word
Eating is supposed to be a happy moment. You’re refueling your body and, hopefully, enjoying the process. Do you want to try cookies? Grab it. Focusing too much on eating “right” might lead to obsessing, as opposed to paying attention. Healthy eating, like so much else in life, is all about finding the right balance.