Losing weight might seem like an ever-elusive goal, especially with all of the conflicting information out there. New fad diets and workouts show up every year and who even knows which one to choose? When you're not sure where to start, sometimes, the easiest thing to do is to keep it simple. Try easing the following tips into your current routine and you'll be on your way to a more fit and healthier you.
Choose to switch out your white bread and pasta for a whole grain version of the same thing. Many brands offer these whole grains in a format that still looks and tastes mostly white. You will increase your fiber and protein intake as well as help to lower your cholesterol.
A morning, protein smoothie, is a great way to start the day. Add yogurt, banana, flax seed and frozen berries, to give yourself a well balanced morning start. This shake will keep you full and give you energy until lunch time. Just make sure not to add any extra sugar or sweeteners.
To improve your nutrition, you should keep track of what you eat. All food contains a certain number of calories that you should add up, to make sure you meet the amount of calories that probiotic supplement good or bad you need everyday. Counting calories also helps you to reduce the quantity of food that you eat, if you tend to overeat.
When shopping for food, try to stick to the perimeter; or around the edges of the store. This is usually where the fresh produce is, as well as the meats and dairy products. These are the things to stick to in a healthy diet. By sticking to the perimeter, you'll only buy things that support a healthy diet.
In making decisions about nutrition, you should cast a wide net. If you take mind and spirit into consideration in other aspects of your life, you should also do so in regard to nutrition. One writer who does this is Sally Fallon in her book, "Nourishing Traditions".
Making spaghetti sauce for your family is easy and with a few extra ingredients it can be more nutritious. The next time you make spaghetti sauce, try adding minced carrots or stirring in pureed baby-food carrots. These ingredients will enhance the flavor. Your family will never notice the extra veggies, but will benefit from the extra nutrition.
The nutritional value of fish makes it a "must" in our diet. Omega 3 fatty acids are its most touted value. Salmon is especially high in Omega 3's. But fish also provide other good things: protein, vitamins A and D, and valuable trace minerals. These nutrients are best found in "wild caught" fish.
If you are eating at a restaurant, and you are offered fries, skip them. They are loaded with fat and salt, which will make you feel bloated, and greasy. Instead, order a side salad or some fresh fruit. When you make healthier choices like these, you will end up feeling better knowing you are taking care of yourself.
Nuts contain good, natural oils that nourish your skin, nails, hair and body. Be sure to choose natural, unsalted nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts, peanuts, etc.) to snack on instead of candies, chips and other empty foods. Nuts are a healthful, nourishing, skin-friendly alternative to mass produced snacks, that damage your health and your skin.
Focus on food labels. Always look at the fat and sugar content of foods when shopping. Check the ingredients list, as they are listed in order of weight. Certain nutritional food claims can be misleading. 'Light' or 'reduced fat' may be just that, but it can still be very high in calories, due to the sugar content.
Create a list of low-fat, low-carb, high-protein foods that you love and then work to create a small recipe book using your favorite ingredients. Eating the same thing over and over can be quite boring, so look for new and fresh ways to use those healthy ingredients to prepare meals you haven't tried before.
Eat lots of vegetables every day. Your Caesar salad, the lettuce leaf on your hamburger or the carrot you chew as a snack - all count. Definitely include dark green leaf vegetables and legumes, as they are excellent sources of different vitamins and minerals. Go easy with dressings, toppings, butter and mayonnaise because they have a high fat content.
Do you know how to begin your own nutrition plan now? Can you now find a place to begin with it? Do you know what will work for and with you? If you can now provide an answer to these questions, then you have read and understood the previous tips and are ready to make better nutritional choices.
