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leafy greens
Everyone seems to jump on the fitness and diet bandwagon when the New Year rolls in. Resolutions made about health and fitness often fail due to lack of motivation or attempts to make radical changes.
This year it may be best to resolve to make some simple changes that can contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Here are a few to try.
- Get your sweets naturally. Replace cookies and candies that are high in calories (and often fat) with naturally sweet fruit which is high in vitamins and fiber. If you are feeling the need to nibble on something sweet yet chewy, opt for some dried fruit or an natural fruit leather.
- Choose a nutty snack. Nuts make a satisfying snack since they are a great source of protein that will keep you full longer than chips or crackers. Studies have also revealed that eating nuts helps prevent cardiovascular disease.
- Get your greens in. In addition to being low in calories, greens are high in nutrients making them great for all parts of the body. To get them in daily, find a salad that you really love and try replacing lettuce with other greens such as kale, chard and spinach.
- Drink water. Many people consume a variety of beverages each day that are full of sugar such as sodas, juices and teas. Replacing these with water will keep your body hydrated and healthy. If plain water is too boring, infuse it by adding a few chunks of your favorite fruit.
- Eat in more. It is so much easier to make healthy choices when you are the person planning the meals. Eating on the go in many cases means eating fatty, fast food and finding healthy choices at many restaurants can be a challenge.
- Be active. A gym membership is not required to exercise, so be creative. Play a sport with your child, take the dogs for a walk or vacuum the house. Anything that gets your heart rate up contributes to overall health.
- Rest well. Recent research has linked lack of sleep to memory problems, obesity and stress. Get in bed at a reasonable time and try to get 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
Sources:
National Sleep Foundation
www.rd.com
