Choose foods that are nutritious (good for you) — that contain vitamins and minerals without too much fat and sugar. Eat a variety of foods that are not deep-fried or processed and packaged.
Sit down to eat meals. This helps with digestion and can be relaxing.
It is important to start your day with breakfast to give your body energy for the day. Even if you are trying to lose weight, it is important not to skip meals because your metabolism will slow down to save energy. Studies have shown that eating breakfast can help you lose weight.
Snacking is part of healthy eating because your body needs energy to fuel your daily activities. Pay attention to when you feel hungry. Don’t just eat because you’re bored or food is being offered − know when your body needs energy. Healthy snacks include apples, peanuts, carrot sticks, cheese and crackers, milk, yogurt, whole wheat bread, applesauce, dried fruit, etc. Foods high in protein, like dairy, meat, and nuts, will keep you full longer.
Too busy or stressed to eat well?
Think again!! Good nutrition is an important stress management tool. When our bodies are fed junk, stress takes an even greater toll on our health.
No one would expect their car to run if they did not fill the tank with gasoline. Yet many people fail on a daily basis to “fuel” their body with healthy food and then wonder why they feel the way they do. You may think that when life gets too hectic, it’s easier to just grab something fast and forget about eating healthy. Life IS crazy at times, but it is still possible to eat healthy.
For starters… Avoid skipping meals! It’s very hard to get in all of the fruits, vegetables, high fiber grain items, and lean protein sources that you need each day without eating at least 3 meals. Also, eating more often helps you create and use more energy.
Keep healthy snacks around like almonds, peanuts, fruit, yogurt, string cheese sticks, soy nuts and low fat granola.