Staying healthy isn’t as complex as it seems – you just need to watch what you eat! A well-rounded diet can help keep illnesses like heart disease and diabetes at bay, and even help manage these conditions better in those who already have them. We can all have our idea of what “healthy eating” is, but the objective is the same: to continuously eat foods that provide the nutrients our bodies need. So, how do we make healthy eating a lifelong habit? Let’s discuss some expert-recommended strategies.
To understand good nutrition, picture it as the framework for good health. It involves eating foods loaded with vital vitamins and minerals, while watching your fat intake. High-fiber foods are a good choice for many people, and who wouldn’t benefit from adding five daily servings of fruits and vegetables to their meals? Equally important, is being aware of how much you eat, so you don’t take in more calories than your body can burn.
Exercise and a balanced diet are the building blocks of good health. But forget about trendy diets that promise quick results. They’re often hard to maintain and could even damage your health. What you need is a sustainable way of eating which emphasizes nutritional value. For example, take into account both the nutrition and calorie content of roti if you’re considering including it in your diet.
If a doctor has pointed out some health concerns to you, or suggested a better diet could improve your condition, or if there are family health issues you could potentially avoid or if you have any questions about your dietary habits or need to lose weight, then it might be time to talk to a healthcare professional about your diet. A nutritionist, who is a dietitian trained in nutrition counseling, could be excellent resource.
Start moving towards healthier habits. It can be tough, but it’s doable with small changes. These tiny tweaks are especially crucial if you have health conditions impacted by your diet, like kidney disease, lactose intolerance or celiac disease. Some simple steps to a healthy diet include examining your current dietary habits, keeping track of your food and drink intake, and perhaps seeking help from a dietitian.
Another great step is cutting down on unhealthy fats. Switch to baking, grilling, or broiling meat and try to eat fish at least once a week. Cut out extra fats like butter on bread or calorie-laden salad dressings, and opt for more fruits and vegetables. Before you buy, take a look at the nutritional information labels on food products and if you need help with these, ask your healthcare provider or dietitian. When you’re eating out, make sure to look out for hidden fats and large portions.
Staying hydrated is also key to good health. Skip sugary drinks and choose zero- or low-calorie options like water or tea instead.
Remember that there are no shortcuts to good nutrition. Eating a varied diet made up of whole foods is the best approach. Be wary of diet plans or products that seem too good to be true – often, they are. Finally, set realistic dietary goals. Whether it’s reducing unhealthy fats or starting small with your dietary changes, your health must always come first.
About the author:
Anamika Singh is a content marketer at Rotimatic, and a devoted mother of two. Known for her insightful content on parenting, cooking and maintaining the home, she loves sharing her own experiences of being a mom and a homemaker. In her leisure time, she loves cooking up a storm and loses herself in books. Her practical advice and useful tips make her a go-to resource for readers.
Categories: Health Tips
Tags: Better Health, Expert Advice, Smart Eating
