A healthy, balanced diet delivers the nutrients needed for proper body functioning. Eating well makes you feel better overall and helps with weight loss or weight maintenance. Most people understand the benefits of a balanced diet, but sticking to the plan isn't always easy. Grocery stores sell convenience foods in almost every aisle, and restaurants dot the streets of many cities. Maintaining a balanced diet requires motivation, discipline and the ability to overcome dietary slip-ups that are bound to happen.
Step 1
Record the food you consume in a food journal. Use the journal as a motivator and review this record of what you ate to help you make healthier choices in the future.
Step 2
Make a checklist or chart of the main food groups and the number of servings you want to consume from each group. Mark the chart each time you consume something. This tracking is less involved than the food journal, but still allows you to review whether you are meeting your goals.
Step 3
Write out a balanced menu for each meal and for snacks. Keep the menu posted as a reference and a reminder. Shop for all necessary ingredients in advance so they are on hand.
Step 4
Modify your family's favorite recipes to include healthier substitutions so you can still enjoy them while eating a more balanced meal. For example, use low-fat milk, cream cheese, sour cream and yogurt in recipes instead of the full-fat dairy products, or use ground turkey in place of ground beef. This keeps you from feeling deprived while still eating a lighter, healthier meal.
Step 5
Experiment with new recipes and methods of cooking food. The variety might help you stick with a balanced diet and it reinforces the idea of healthy food tasting good.
Step 6
Join a CSA, community supported agriculture group, to receive a steady supply of produce---or grow your own garden. The produce will be convenient and you might feel more of a impetus to use the fruits and vegetables.
Step 7
Indulge occasionally in small amounts of less healthy treats, but don't keep them in the house. Force yourself to leave the house to purchase the food to make it feel more like a treat.
Member Comments