The key to success in everything you do is preparation. The more time you spend preparing, planning and organizing, the greater your success will be. This is also true when it comes to adopting a healthier lifestyle. If you’re ready to make some healthy changes, the first thing you should do is get rid of temptation, starting with your pantry.
Remove temptation
Change is hard, no matter what. So make things easier for yourself by getting rid of all temptations lurking in your pantry or cupboards. Having big boxes of cookies or large bags of chips around can compromise your good intentions, so get tiny packages or get rid of foods that tempt you to overeat. Clear out the pantry of all items you won’t be using. Donate unopened packages to a food pantry, or bring them to work to share. If there’s a half-eaten package of cookies or chips, simply throw it away. Keeping only wholesome snacks around the house will help you stay on track and make better decisions.
Restock your pantry
In order to restock your pantry with nutrient-pack foods that give your body the fuel it needs, you need to start reading the labels of all the products you buy. Avoid items that are high in sugar, sodium, artificial coloring, saturated fats and preservatives. Stock up on whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables and other high fiber foods that should be present in all healthy diets. Adopt a wholesome diet – one that relies on whole, natural or lightly processed foods — and your body will show its gratitude in no time.
Spice up your kitchen
We all know that cooking can sometimes be a hassle, so try to get your family involved in the kitchen, making it a fun family activity. Stock up on your favorite spices and seasonings and recreate your favorite dishes with a healthy twist, perhaps less salt, but more garlic, onions and herbs or less added fat and more broth. Who knows? Maybe you won’t be the only one that will be cooking.
Smart snacks
If you like to snack, make sure you have raw nuts, fruits and low fat dairy products available. When you feel like your energy levels are down, you could always grab a low fat Greek yogurt, a small handful of almonds, and a banana or some delicious berries. This snack will definitely boost your energy and will also provide your body with important nutrients like calcium, magnesium, potassium and a dose of antioxidants.
Healthier substitutes
If you feel like you could never get by without eating potato chips, you will be glad to know that you can switch them with vegetable chips or the many baked varieties available, a much healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. Look for healthier versions of favorite snacks, and include them in your new and improved pantry.
Change takes time, so take things slow. Try not to overwhelm yourself and do a little each day. Set short term goals that you can achieve day by day, to keep your mind focused and on point.
Live life and love it. Eat well.
