Five tips for a healthier diet
DOES a diet seem daunting? Well, it needn’t be. You can boost your health by following a handful of simple priorities. Our sister publication, No. 1 Magazine, identifies the healthy eating habits that will change your life.
Indulge your guilty pleasures
YOU should continue to enjoy the foods you love but in smaller quantities. Don’t be too strict with yourself. You might just end up overeating because you feel dissatisfied. Everything is OK in moderation.
Show plenty of bottle
IT’S no secret that water helps flush our systems of toxins and anything unhealthy. Lack of water causes you to become dehydrated, leading to tiredness and low energy, which can then prompt comfort eating. It’s common to mistake thirst for hunger, too, so staying well hydrated will also encourage healthier food choices.
Create a weekly eating plan
EVERY Sunday, plan your meals for the forthcoming week. Compile a thorough shopping list, making sure you buy enough to cover the week. That way, you’re less likely to make daily trips and overindulge. Sweet treats always look tempting after a long day at work! And, if you are going out for dinner, don’t feel guilty ordering a meal you love. However, if you are trying to stick to a plan, it’s worth seeing what healthier options the restaurant offers.
Don’t forget your breakfast
THERE’S a reason why brekkie is the most important meal of the day. Research has shown that dieters who take breakfast are less likely to “fall off the wagon”. Getting off to a good start will encourage you to eat healthier throughout the day and also fills you up, which means less snacking.
Reduce your salt intake
EATING too much salt can raise your blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease or a stroke. Remember, many foods already have salt in them. This is particularly true of cereals, soups and bread. You’ll also be surprised what hidden ingredients you’ll find in certain sauces. More than 1.5g of salt per 100g means the food is high in salt. Over-11s should eat no more than 6g of salt – about a teaspoonful – a day. Younger children should consume even less.