New Year means new resolutions and
goals. For most of us, being healthy and lifestyle changes for better
well-being and healthier choices are significant parts of that resolution. The
holidays left many people with unwanted weight gain and some bulges that they
wish to lose. So goals made for regular exercising and healthier eating. But
despite confusing mass market campaigns, eating healthier meals is not as
complicated as it seems.
Anybody can follow a healthier diet
whether they are after weight loss, muscle gain or simply want to maintain
their current body. Here are a few guide
to help you familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of healthier eating and
make you take in your health and wellness a little more seriously.
Go for Good Carbohydrates
Unlike high-glycemic index carbs,
good carbohydrates have low-glycemic index and they do not raise your blood
sugar level nor promote fat storage. Go for whole grains, oatmeal, whole wheat,
beans, vegetables and fruits. Avoid simple sugars as well as refined
carbohydrates.
Go for Fiber-Rich Food
US Stats show that many Americans do
not meet the recommended daily fiber need. This is because they do not eat
enough fruits or vegetables. Adults need more or less 20 to 30 grams of fiber
each day and these can be sourced from fruits, vegetables, whole grains,
oatmeal and beans.
Go for More Fruits and Vegetables
Adults should have at least nine
servings or at least nine servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Fruits and
vegetables are healthy, low calorie and packed with nutrients and anti-oxidants
so they can be great replacement for high-fat snacks such as pizza or potato
chips.
Go Lean Protein
Fatty red meat is a primary source
of protein that is saturated in fat. The best choices for healthier and leaner
protein sources are turkey, chicken, turkey, fish and nuts. Studies reveal that
people who consume more than 18 ounces of red meat at a higher risk of
developing colon cancer.
Say No to Trans Fat
Trans fat should be limited or
avoided altogether. This can lower your “good” cholesterol or high-density
lipoprotein and raise the “bad” cholesterol or low density lipoprotein.
Commercially baked goodies, fast food, desserts and food that contain the
secret ingredient, “partially hydrogenated vegetable oil” has trans fats. There
is no safe or acceptable level for trans fat consumption so better avoid
it.
Say No to Sugary Drinks
As much as you can, say no to cola,
fruit drinks with added sugar and sports drinks. These beverages may only
increase your blood sugar levels with their empty calories.
Drink More Water
Water is very important in keeping
your body healthy. This is often forgotten in many healthy eating guide. Thus
regardless of your health goals this year, make an effort to drink six to eight
ounce glasses of water each day. You can’t have too much water in your body
because your kidneys can handle up to 60 glasses per day!
Say No to Dietary Supplements
You might have notice the popularity
of health and dietary supplements today. But unless you have some deficiency of
some sort, taken more than the required nutritional requirements will not
really make you any healthier or help you achieve your health goals faster.
Best discuss your physical state with your doctor first before you take any
supplements.
