Every January I resolve to try to live better. I try to make positive changes in my everyday choices that are healthier. I try to eat better, exercise more, and make myself healthier. This year I am trying to achieve this sensibly and not do anything too drastic. (I did give up caffeine this year, which was pretty drastic!) My goal this year, though, is to make small changes that are going to stick a little longer than a week. Changes I can live with.
I can change recipes a bit to be healthier so that my family can still enjoy their favorites, and enjoy health, too. I can walk around the block after each meal. I can park farther out in the parking lot and walk to the store. I also am trying to get at least seven hours of sleep each night. (That one will not happen I am afraid!)
We can change some things that are small, but can have a big impact on our health and well-being. One is start your day with a glass or two of water. It is great if you are on a reducing diet. It is also great for digestion. It is a great habit to get into.
Another thing you can do is change from margarine to a spread such as Smart Balance that contains no trans-fats. Olive oil spreads are good also, and taste great. Look, too, for spreads that contain omega 3. They are so much healthier than margarine and butter.
Another small change you can make is to use extra lean ground beef or ground turkey in your recipes. There is also a turkey breakfast sausage that is very tasty. Using these in place of ground beef can save you countless calories and fat, and they taste so good, nobody will even know!
Snack on celery and carrots if you want a crunch. Also, remember that it takes roughly eight minutes for your mind to tell your stomach it is full. Eat slowly and thoroughly enjoy each bite, and tune in to the little voice that says, “I’m full now.”
One last suggestion is to change to whole grain and whole wheat products. We need much more fiber in our diets. We need to up the intake by changing to whole wheat breads and cereals. They taste great and give your body what it needs. Plus, they make you feel full faster and stay with you longer than the other breads and cereals.
To live healthier we don’t need drastic measures, just smart choices. Try some of these and see how you feel!
Photo Credit © Gary Woodard | Dreamstime.com
Posted by: Jennifer L Price on January 19, 2009 at 10:29 am
Great tips! There are so many small things we can do that can make a difference at the end of the day. Don’t forget the switch from regular soda to diet, eating more fruit and vegetables (I try to have at least one at every meal), and taking the stairs instead of the elevator. The list can just go on and on of all the healthy things we could do.
Posted by: Christie @ fig&cherry on January 21, 2009 at 8:36 pm
I agree Martha – great article!
Drinking water is so important. I wrote an article on how to drink more water too. http://www.figandcherry.com/recipes/an-easy-way-to-drink-more-h20/
Best of luck everyone – take it one step at a time!