Healthy Eating
Maybe you enjoy working out (or not), but when it comes to eating healthy, are you slacking in that department? I’ve put together a list of 5 simple things that you can do to start eating better today. Remember, eating healthy, in addition to exercising on a regular basis, are the keys to staying fit!
1. Cupboard overhaul: Look through all of your cupboards and get rid of anything that will tempt you, such as cookies, candy, sugary cereal, crackers that are made with white refined flour and canned goods that are loaded with sodium. Re-stock your cupboard with healthy items such as whole grain crackers (made with whole wheat flour, such as reduced fat Triscuits or Ak Maks), whole grain cereal (Kashi Go Lean Crunch, Cheerios, Kashi Heart to Heart), all-natural or heart-healthy peanut or almond butter, low-sodium/low-fat soups, olive oil, vinegar, on-the-go oatmeal packets, etc.
2. Stock your fridge: Purchase your favorite fresh fruit and veggies to have for healthy snacks and easy side dishes for your next meal. Also, buy lean meat such as chicken, ground turkey and fish to plan for your dinners. Choose easy lunch items, such as whole wheat sandwich bread or wraps (La Tortilla whole grain ones that are 100 calories), turkey lunch meat without nitrates, lettuce and tomatoes. Buy low-fat or non-fat dairy items such as milk, yogurt and cottage cheese.
3. Easy Preparation: After you have stocked your fridge, chop veggies (such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers) and leave in your fridge for easy snacks.
4. Plan ahead: Look at everything that you have on hand and plan your meals for the week. If you need to go to the grocery store to get certain ingredients, make a list and stock-up on Sunday, so you don’t have to go to the store mid-week. If you need healthy dinner ideas, check out EatingWell or Cooking Light. Prepare your lunch and snacks the night before, so you are not tempted to eat out when you get to work. For some easy lunch ideas, make a salad loaded with veggies and chopped chicken, a turkey wrap with a piece a fruit and carrots or cottage cheese with fruit and a side of carrots.
5. Limiting: Even though you have a stocked fridge and cupboard at home, you are probably still tempted to eat out. Limit yourself to eating out once a week, such as on the weekend, making it a special treat. By limiting yourself to eating out only once a week, you will not only save your waistline, but you will also save your money, too!
