A new year has just rolled around, and with it, many have set goals to become healthier through eating better. Here are a few small ways to help you achieve your goals without putting forth too much effort, and make healthy eating seem as easy as pie (oops, sorry).
Almond milk.
Don't kick it to the curb unless you've tried it -- almond milk is yummy. It is a vegan alternative -- if that is important to you -- but many non-vegans, myself included, enjoy it more than regular milk. Just to give you an idea, almond milk contains significantly less sugar and carbohydrates than regular milk and offers more beneficial fats.
Balsamic.
Try using balsamic as a salad or sandwich dressing. It adds tons of flavor without packing in calories and fat like most other dressing.
Fewer whites.
As wonderful as carbs are, try to avoid them. If possible, ditch highly processed white breads, or go for whole grains instead. Even Jimmy John's offers a lettuce wrap as a bread substitute for all of their sandwiches.
Agave nectar.
Agave nectar is a great alternative to sugar and other sweeteners. It's all natural, and just as flavorful.
Coconut oil.
Substitute for butter, shortening, or other oils. Coconut oil offers tons of incredible health benefits, from lowering heart disease risk to killing dangerous bacteria.
Spaghetti Squash.
Try as an alternative to noodles for pasta night. Seriously so yummy, and so much better for you.
Sweet tooth?
Try dark chocolate. It's a great source of antioxidants and is even said to be heart healthy.
Eat more fruits & veggies.
Try making healthy fruit dips for snacking. Also, blending up smoothies is a great and tasty way to get your veggies in. Try adding in kale or spinach to your regular smoothie.
Skip salt.
Try using other herbs or spices to compensate.
Drink more water & less soda.
The best thing you can do for your body is to drink as much water as you can. Try adding lemon slices to make it tastier. Also, it's no secret that soda is terrible for you. But just a reminder -- soda has an insane amount of sugar and/or artificial sweeteners, has no nutritional value, and destroys your teeth.
Avoid packaged stuff.
Processed foods are harmful to your health in many ways.
Refrain from late night snacking.
Your body does not metabolize the food you ingest as well at this time.
Find a balance.
You don't have to say goodbye to your favorite foods in order to be healthy. It's all about moderation.
Don't skip meals.
Make sure to eat frequently in order to fuel your metabolism throughout the day. Absolutely do not skip meals, especially breakfast. Doing so can lead to out-of-control hunger (causing you to overeat, and/or eat the wrong things).
Good luck!
