A healthy diet plays 80% of leading a healthy lifestyle. Healthy food doesn't need to taste like you are eating cardboard, but if done the right way, can help you forget about your cravings. Here are small changes that you can make to your diet that can have a huge impact.
Switch to whole grains
Switching from refined grains to whole grains is a start. Not only is it a good source of fibre and vitamin B, but it also has several minerals. You can do this with bread, rice, and pasta to make sure that you are packing in as many nutrients as you need. The benefits that come with whole-grain food include the reduced risk of heart diseases, diabetes, and cancer.
Eat more fruits and vegetables
With the versatility that comes with fruits and vegetables, it is easy to turn this into something that can be had for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This small change can give you enough fibre and nutrients that your body needs. Just make sure to not drench your vegetables in oil or add artificial flavouring to your fruit.
Drink enough water
Never underestimate the power of drinking water. Research has revealed that drinking water can benefit from making you take in fewer calories. It can also assist you in maintaining your weight and burning off weight by reducing your appetite. Mixing water with fruit pieces can also be a healthy alternative to make your water a bit more interesting.
Ditch frying and grilling
Frying and grilling can have a severe impact on your health. It has been found that foods that are prepared in this manner release several potentially toxic compounds that have been linked to diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Preparing your favourite dishes such as meat and fish by baking or roasting it can be a healthier alternative. You can do the same when it comes to vegetables - instead of frying or boiling it, you can roast them.
Switch to good oils
Not all oils are bad oils. Make sure to stock up on healthy alternatives such as coconut oils, avocado oil, canola oil, flaxseed oil or extra virgin olive oil. The trick, even with these oils, is not to include too many oils in your dishes.
Reduce your sugar intake
Sugar can be addictive and also wreak havoc on your health. Move towards gradually reducing your sugar intake by cutting back on refined sugars or adding sugar to your food and drinks. There are healthy ways for you to indulge your sweet tooth without the guilt or health risks. Remember to gradually decrease instead of doing a one day overhaul so that your body has time to adjust, which decreases your chances of going back to old habits.
