Healthy eating often gets a bad reputation. Diets throughout the years have often been comprised of bland foods with strict rules to follow. There's a reason why diets rarely work, and we need to take mental note of that.
Strict rules lead to a rigid relationship with food and decision fatigue. On the flip side, eating healthy foods without following someone else's rules can be simple and enjoyable. You set the rules once you explore what works best for your unique body, paired with your unique lifestyle.
The most important aspect is an approach that is sustainable and enjoyable for you. Here are a few ways to accomplish this in your life.
1. Munch More Leafy Greens
Spinach, kale, arugula, and all of those in the leafy green family are full of vitamins and fiber.
Leafy greens are easy to add to just about any meal. Between salads, blending greens into your smoothies, homemade kale chips, and sautéed greens as a side item for dinner -- you can have several servings of greens each day with ease.
2. Put More Emphasis on Plant-based Foods
Putting effort into making your meals primarily plant-based will effortlessly help you to increase your veggie intake. We just don’t eat enough vegetables as part of our modern diet that focuses on processed, commercially engineered convenience foods.
Try centering your meals around the plant-based ingredients, and you'll find yourself craving them even more. If you aren't used to eating vegetables regularly and feel intimidated by that, start slowly. Start adding them in meal by meal, and you'll reach your goals over time.
3. Nix Mealtime Distractions
One of the simplest ways to eat healthier is merely sitting and enjoying your food, bite for bite, without distractions.
Keep your phone down, turn off the TV, and be mindful as you eat. You’ll wind up eating just the right amount because you’ll be allowing your stomach enough time to tell your brain it is satisfied. Plus, if you have loved ones or friends dining with you, you’ll enjoy the meal even more by genuinely connecting with them through conversation.
4. Use Fresh Herbs When You Cook
An effortless way to boost the flavors of your meal is to use fresh herbs. If you typically flavor your meals with things like hearty sauces, try taking the simple route by seasoning your food with fresh herbs and spices.
Aside from their delicious taste, fresh herbs also pack a powerful nutritious punch. So not only are you making your food taste great, but you're also adding health benefits when you add fresh herbs and spices.
5. Don’t Deprive Yourself
Although it's wise to limit unhealthy foods, deprivation is unnecessary. Attempt to drop the labels for these foods and listen to how your body feels when you eat.
If you feel bad after you eat something, take note of this. When you feel good after eating something, remember what ingredients you had in that meal and eat more of them. When you tune in and listen, you'll learn what makes you feel best and begin to crave those items.
When you're being mindful and fueling your body with what makes it feel good, you'll have those splurge-worthy foods less and enjoy them more. When you work on healthy eating in this way, you won't feel like you're missing out.
Would you like some support in becoming the best version of yourself? I would love to chat with you about your health goals.
You can schedule a free 30-minute breakthrough session with me here.