Healthier eating habits for the new year

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Some ideas to eat healthier if you're looking to do that in the coming year:

More organic, less processed

We eat so much processed food in general, so cutting out a lot of packaged items that are processed is actually a good thing to cut out, even though cutting out anything is not necessary. Processed foods can have high fructose corn syrup, a ton of sodium, and may make you feel heavy and sluggish. .

Organic anything is better if you can swing it money-wise. Organic fruits and vegetables will have a specific sticker on it to let you know it’s organic, and there are sometimes organic sections of the supermarket. Shopping at farmer’s markets is also a great way to know that what you are buying is straight from the farm. Buy what you are going to eat so nothing goes to waste, and limit junk foods and sweets in the house if you're trying to cut back on those.

Eat Baked Not Fried 

Eating food that has been fried in oil is not great for your heart and overall health, so eating less of those foods and more foods that are baked is a quick, healthier substitution. French fries can be baked in the oven as can chicken, and both can be done in the air fryer without a vat of oil. There are so many baked chicken recipes, and if you find a really good oven baked chicken breast recipe you can keep it as a staple in your meal planning and make it once a week.

Pair it with grilled vegetables and you will find yourself with a well-balanced meal that is healthy, gives you energy, and will help you stay alert and strong during your workouts. 

Less processed foods

All white foods are not bad, but the general rule of thumb is that if something is white, it has been processed. Processed foods can have high fructose corn syrup, a ton of sodium, and may make you feel heavy and sluggish. 

If you replace these foods with less processed foods, you will be doing your body a huge service.

Eat Green

Broccoli and cauliflower are good carbs that will give you energy and they are part of a healthy, balanced diet. Roast brussels sprouts and mix them with broccoli or cauliflower for a delicious and flavorful side dish to your main course. 

Don’t Eat Too Late

Everyone’s schedules are different, but a solid rule is to try not to eat a few hours before bed. When you give your body time to digest your food completely before laying down for the night, you reduce your risk of diabetes and obesity. You will also wake up hungry and after you eat a healthy breakfast, you will be energized for the day. 

Eat Foods With Vitamin A

Foods rich in Vitamin A are good for your hair, skin, and eyes. Skin is the largest organ of the body, and if you are not well and not feeding yourself a balanced diet, it will come out in your skin. Foods like carrots and salmon and spinach, which are high in Vitamin A will help keep you looking young and vibrant. Add them to your diet and you will soon see how radiant you have become.  

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This post was written with the Life According to Steph audience in mind