As we're inching closer to 2022, a lot of people get into that "healthier and better" vibe only to find themselves slowly regressing in time. Well, that happens - don't be too hard on yourself.
Thing is, there's always time to get back on track. The world is battling a pandemic, so there's no better time to get into healthier eating habits than now.
Add, Not Subtract
One of the reasons why more people abandon new goals is that they try to make too drastic a change too quickly. Start small when thinking about improving your diet by thinking about adding fresh items to your repertoire rather than throwing out your old favorites.
Do you enjoy pasta? This week, try arugula and sun-dried tomatoes with whole wheat or brown rice pasta. Looking for something sweet to eat first thing in the morning? Blend together vanilla almond milk, frozen banana, fresh spinach, and hemp protein in a smoothie.
Do you have a habit of overeating during dinner? When you start your dinner with a vibrant salad or a bowl of homemade vegetable soup, you'll be able to get the most out of your vegetables when it comes to the main dish.
Over time, small improvements add up, so keep things simple and doable.
Do it With a Friend
It's far better (and more fun!) to try anything new with a friend. Enlist the help of a friend or family member to assist each other in making healthier choices. Swap recipes, go out to eat at the newest places, or send each other the leftovers of your healthy dinners. Having a "health buddy" can help you feel driven to eat healthier and stay on track.
Learn to Cook
Learning to cook meals from scratch in your own kitchen is one of the best things you can do for your health. Start small and try to arrange a few basic dinners at home during the next month if you're new to cooking. Curry, soup, and stir fry are ideal for newbies because they are almost impossible to mess up!
If you're already a pro in the kitchen, take it to the next level. Make an effort to prepare more ingredients from scratch. For example, instead of using canned beans, learn how to cook your own beans. Alternatively, learn how to prepare a dish you're unfamiliar with. The more meals you prepare, the more control you have over your diet and the healthier you can be!
