By now, you probably already know that dieting is often not the best option. Many diet trends will actually do you more harm than good, not to mention that they are only a “temporary fix”. Fortunately, today, more and more people are recognizing the importance of healthy eating that focuses on getting you all the necessary nutrients to keep you healthy and strong while not starving you or having you live an abstinent life.
Even if you don’t “need” to diet, you should consider improving your eating habits, given that it reduces the risks of cardiovascular diseases, as well as puts you one step closer to a fit body. So, if you too want to adopt a new approach, read on to learn how you can adopt a healthy eating habit.
What to avoid
What you want to cut back on are processed foods, too much sugar, and salt, as well as saturated fats. On the other hand, you should completely avoid several other things. Artificial sweeteners are actually worse than having a bit of natural sugar. While not all research agrees on their effects, it’s best if you steer clear of these sweeteners, as they can affect your natural metabolism or even make you crave more sugar.
Trans fats (and partially hydrogenated oils which are a type of trans fats) raise your “bad” cholesterol levels, which can lead to heart problems and stroke in the long run. In addition, simply put, they make you fat. Fried foods, frozen, pre-made dishes, doughnuts, cake mixes, refrigerated cookie batter, margarine, etc. are just some of the foods that contain much of these unhealthy fats, so finding an alternative for these is a great idea.
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What to eat
When choosing what to eat, whole foods are your best bet. Your diet should contain plenty of whole grains as they are extremely nutritious and also help in healthy bowel movement thanks to their fibers. They contain vitamins, most importantly vitamin B, minerals, such as manganese, iron etc., proteins and even large amounts of healthy antioxidants. Antioxidants are essential nutrients that have been shown to help in the prevention of diseases such as heart disease and even cancer, which is why grain buyers in Australia are eager to reap their benefits.
Fruits and vegetables are important for a similar reason: nutrients and fibers – so make sure a half of your plate is comprised of fresh produce! Finally, make sure you consume healthy oils and fats, such as olive oil, and also oily fish to get that omega-3.
Calorie watch
Depending on your fitness goal, you should adjust your daily calorie intake. To maintain your weight, take in about as many calories as you burn throughout the day. To lose weight, lower your calorie intake, and to gain weight, simply increase it. However, everyone has a different body and lifestyle, so it’s best if you calculate the exact amount that will fit your needs.
Proper hydration is important
While not strictly a question of healthy eating, the importance of proper hydration must be mentioned. Besides its benefits for your skin, your ability to focus and your overall well-being, it also helps prevent bloating and will reduce your hunger, helping you lose weight! So, make sure that you drink enough water, especially if you live in warmer places such as sunny Dubai or Australia.
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Cooking at home is your best option
While not all people have the time for this, if you do, make sure you prepare most of your meals yourself! This way, not only will you know exactly what’s in your food you will also have the liberty to choose the healthier versions of your ingredients. So, make sure you up your cooking skills if you have the time!
While healthy eating will require some effort on your side, it will change your life for the better. Besides the obvious health benefits, you will gain a dose of confidence when the fruits of your labor are starting to become visible! Start with small steps and eventually, healthy eating will become a lifestyle of yours, as opposed to a temporary diet.
About the Author – Jasmine Anderson
Jasmine is a lifestyle and beauty blogger based in Australia. She is an incurable daydreamer, who finds inspiration in little, everyday moments. Spending time at her cozy home office with her two cats, writing her blog, is her favorite thing in the world. |Twitter
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2 Comments
Great tricks and nutritional information that is so helpful. Thanks for sharing. xx
My pleasure… thank you. 😉