It’s still the first month of the year, and you’re possibly still discussing with family and friends your goal to change your eating habits this year. What are you waiting for? Well, you possibly have no clue where to begin.Changing your eating habits for the better can be a little intimidating when you’re unsure of where to start. I think the key to changing eating habits is taking small baby steps and trying different strategies that can make eating healthy a breeze.So without further ado, here’s a list that can give you a jump start on changing those eating habits for a healthier lifestyle.
1. Stop frying your food instead grill or bake. Getting rid of excess oil and grease can reduce the fat content you take in. If you really want something fried try oven fried chicken or fish. Instead of flour you can use dry whole grain cereal.
2. Watch serving amounts. Use the nutrition labels to assess how much one serving is. If possible try to stop going back for seconds.
3. Don’t go wild with the dressing and condiments. A lot of your extra calories come from dressing and condiments. Instead make your own so you can control what does in, and you don’t have to worry about danger additives like GMOs or high fructose corn syrup.
4. Stop using salt instead go for salt free seasoning. Yep. It can be found at most grocers. Go to your local farmers market and pick up your favorite spices. Make your own homemade seasoning using spices.
5. Don’t overload on the starches. Like corn, white potatoes and bread. Also, try an alternative like baked sweet potato or sweet potato fries. Instead of white rice go for brown rice and later try quinoa or oats for variety.
6. Use your plate to balance portion control. Your plate can simply be broken down into four even sections. Also, you can use a smaller plate to prevent yourself from overeating. A smaller plate can fool you into believing there is more food on your plate.
7. Have a sweet tooth. Try freezing grapes, they make an excellent sweet treat. Grapes also relax the blood vessels in your body.
8. More cool substitutes you can try? Mashed cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes, mashed avocado instead of mayo, or greek yogurt instead of sour cream. These substitutes may seem strange at first, but you may be surprised at how delicious a simple substitute can be.
9. Fresh vs frozen? Believe it or not, go with frozen. Most vegetables are flash frozen, and studies show you receive the most nutritional value possible. Meanwhile, fresh vegetables lose their value as their transported to your local market.
10. Egg whites instead of eggs. If you want to be adventurous try to make egg white muffins with peppers, cheese, and spinach or kale.
This list suggests a few ways to make small changes that can a profound outcome of your health and figure. Do you have any suggestions or ways to make small changes in your diet?
*Image courtesy Flickr creative commons.