Many find it difficult to eat healthy in a world filled with fast food restaurants, conveniently packaged goodies and vending machines full of candy bars and chips. In addition to the high fat content and overly sugared products at every turn, there is the fast pace of today's lifestyle that makes it difficult to sit down for well-balanced meals each day. Despite the challenges, with a little work and creativity, you can find ways to begin a healthy eating lifestyle.
Buy Fresh
Shop for fresh products. Visit farmers markets and organic-based food stores to find ripe produce. Remember to by fresh as your first choice, frozen as your second and canned items as your final alternative.
Overcome Temptation
Resist the temptation of convenience packaged foods and drive through restaurants. If you must get a quick meal, learn to select the healthiest foods on the menu. For example, look for non-breaded grilled chicken sandwiches and ask for light dressing for green salads. Check the labels on packaged frozen dinners for fat and sugar content. A useful rule of thumb is to choose packaged meals containing a small number of "ingredients" and stay away from ones with an abundance of additives.
Healthy Alternatives
Opt for healthy alternatives when you have a taste for traditionally unhealthy foods. For example if you want a burger, shop for the leanest package of ground beef and grill your patties rather than frying them. You can also bake a potato rather than having fries and create a healthy homemade "shake" with frozen yogurt, skim milk and fresh fruit.
Sack Lunches
Carry bagged lunches to work instead of ordering in or grabbing something from the vending machine. If you pack it yourself you are in control and can sure you have healthy choices in front of you.
Balance Your Diet
Make sure you are eating from all the food groups for a balanced diet. These include carbohydrates, proteins, fruits, vegetables and a small amount of fat per day.
Don't Get Hungry
Eat when you are hungry. If you delay eating when you become hungry you will be likely to choose quick foods that may not be the healthiest option for you. Be ready with a snacking bowl of cut up fruits or vegetables with light dressing in the fridge.
Know What You Eat
Ask for nutritional information when you eat out. Don't be afraid to ask how items are prepared. Choose entrees that are cooked without added fat or breading. Try grilled or broiled items and ask for butter and dressings to be served on the side.
Unfamiliar Foods
Try "new" lean meats, fruits and vegetables to keep your healthy diet exciting. Introducing foods normally not a part of your diet will be adventurous and allow you to sample dishes from other cultures. Remember, however, to check how the foods are prepared and the ingredients as every style of food has its less than healthy meals.
Eat More Seafood
Eat more fish. Grill, bake and broil an abundance of seafood as it is generally high in omega 3 fats (the healthiest of the fats) and low in fat and calories. If you have never been a big fan of fish, try seasoning it with lemon pepper, thyme or other herbs. Experiment with various flavors until you hit upon your favorite.
Healthy Beverages
Drink healthy. If you find yourself in a constant hurry with little time to prepare a healthy meal, try drinking it instead. Invest in a quality juicer and toss your veggies and fruits in (unpeeled if possible). Fresh fruit and vegetable juices are tasty and easily consumed. You can also add ingredients such as wheat germ and other supplements to increase the nutritional value of your homemade juice.
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