In the hustle and bustle of daily life, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet often takes a backseat.
However, making positive changes to your nutrition doesn’t always require a complete overhaul of your eating habits.
In fact, small, manageable adjustments can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being.
The following are seven easy changes you can make today to enhance your nutrition and pave the way for a healthier you.
Hydration is key
One of the simplest yet most impactful changes you can make is increasing your water intake.
Staying hydrated is essential for numerous bodily functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation.
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends a daily water intake of about 125 ounces for men and about 91 ounces for women, including fluids from all beverages and foods.
In general, aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day, and consider swapping sugary beverages for water or herbal tea to cut down on unnecessary calories.
Embrace whole foods
Shift your focus towards whole, minimally processed foods.
Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals. And, of course, the more you can get your family on board, the better.
These nutrient-dense foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting better digestion and long-lasting energy.
Mindful eating
Practice mindful eating by paying attention to what, when, and how much you eat.
Avoid distractions like phones or television during meals, savor each bite, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
This simple shift in awareness can help prevent overeating and encourage healthier food choices.
Choose healthy fats
Not all fats are created equal.
Opt for sources of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, while minimizing saturated and trans fats found in processed and fried foods.
Healthy fats support brain function, hormone production, and overall cardiovascular health.
Control portions
Portion control plays a crucial role in maintaining a balanced diet.
Be mindful of serving sizes, and try using smaller plates to help manage portions. Eating slowly and savoring your food can also give your body time to signal when it’s full, preventing overeating.
Plan balanced meals
Take a few moments to plan your meals and snacks ahead of time.
Aim for a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats in each meal to provide sustained energy throughout the day.
This planning can also help you resist the temptation of convenient, less nutritious options.
Limit added sugars
Reducing your intake of added sugars can have a profound impact on your health.
Check food labels for hidden sugars and opt for naturally sweetened alternatives, such as fresh fruits.
Keep in mind the American Heart Association’s recommendations for sugar intake:
- Men should consume no more than 9 teaspoons (36 grams or 150 calories) of added sugar per day.
- Women should consume no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams or 100 calories) per day.
Consider that one 12-ounce can of soda contains 8 teaspoons (32 grams) of added sugar! Cutting back on sugary beverages is just another quick win for better nutrition.
In conclusion
Improving your nutrition doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By incorporating these easy changes into your daily routine, you can take significant steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
Remember, small adjustments can lead to big results over time, so start today and enjoy the benefits of a more nourished and energized you.
Kaia FIT is a women’s fitness and nutrition program that empowers women to become the best version of themselves through personalized coaching in a group environment. We prioritize community to help connect women to each other for additional support and accountability. Caren Roblin is the owner of Kaia FIT Sierra, with four studio locations in Reno-Sparks.