Eat Better & Feel Better: The Basics of Eating Healthy

Your food and drink choices have a major effect on your overall health. Everything you eat or drink will become the energy you need to stay active. The mayo clinic reports that a large body of evidence shows that healthy-eating patterns and regular physical activity can help people achieve and maintain good health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Making changes to your diet doesn't have to be overwhelming. You can make simple choices everyday that will have enormous benefits on your health and wellness.



Look better, feel better and perform better by making the right choices when it comes diet. Not sure where to start? Try the 7 Basics of Eating Healthy below.



1. Drink water
Skip the soda and opt for a glass of water instead. This simple swap has a huge effect on your overall health and wellbeing and can also help with weight management. High calorie drinks lead to sluggishness and weight gain. Substituting water for one 20-ounce sugary soda will save you around 240 calories on average. To read our blog post on the importance of staying hydrated for more information on the benefits of drinking water, click here.

2. Eat your fruit and vegetables
You’ve heard it a million times before, but how many nutrient rich fruits and vegetables are you actually eating? Don’t skip your fruits and veggies! They are a vital source of vitamins and minerals and help maintain a healthy gut. Find a yummy vegetable side dish recipe on Pinterest. Eat an apple with your breakfast. There are many simple ways to add nutrient rich foods to your diet.

3. Cook your meals
Cooking your meals at home has a multitude of benefits, from saving money to portion control. The easiest way to eat healthy is by cooking your meals at home. It gives you full control over what you're putting in your body. You can easily make healthy swaps like cooking with a healthier oil over butter or a lower calorie salad dressing. Unsure of what to cook? Find a healthy recipe blog for meal prepping ideas! Check out this list of 52 Healthy Meal Prep Recipes.

4. Limit alcohol intake
According the Mayo Clinic any potential benefits of alcohol are relatively small and may not apply to all individuals. For many people, the possible benefits don't outweigh the risks and avoiding alcohol is the best course. Excessive drinking can increase your risk of serious health problems including heart failure, stroke, high blood pressure, liver disease and more.

5. Find replacements for cravings
The most common adversary to a healthy diet is the dreaded cravings. Don't let a craving derail your diet. Instead take it as an opportunity to train your body into finding pleasure in healthier alternatives. For example if you're craving sweets opt for fresh fruit. Craving something creamy and indulgent? Try some Greek yogurt. For more healthier swaps check out this list.

6. Stop eating when you are full
When starting your health journey it's important to listen to your body. Pay more attention to your hunger levels when you're eating. Be mindful of how much you're eating. To do this eat a little slower. As soon as you feel satisfied and no longer hungry stop eating. Many times we push ourselves to finish the plate leading to overeating, an uncomfortable "too full" sensation and weight gain.

7. Become Active
Good nutrition and exercise often go hand in hand. The endorphins from working out decrease feelings of depression and help you stay motivated and focused on a healthier diet. Motivate yourself with an effective and convenient home fitness plan. To find the right exercise equipment for you, click here.

Always consult a physician when making drastic changes to your diet and nutrition. What may work for some may not work for others. The important thing to remember is listen to your body and take it one choice at a time. Completely overhauling your diet and thinking of it as an "all or nothing" situation can set yourself up for failure. Instead focus on your victories and these small choices everyday and overtime you will find yourself feeling better and making more and more healthier decisions.