A Diet is No Longer A Diet When You Enjoy Your Meals
Find nutritious food you like and incorporate them into your daily menu. Some whole grain carbohydrates here, a serving of protein there, a sprinkle of fat and presto! Your healthy meal is served.
What to Eat:
Start by making a list of your favorite foods. Review the list for not-so-healthy items and replace with a nutritious alternative. From this list, create as many meal and snack options as possible.
Need more variety? Get creative with these foods…
PROTEIN:
Tuna, salmon, tilapia, white chicken meat, 1% cottage cheese, egg whites, beans, lean cuts of beef, pork tenderloin
CARBOHYDRATES:
Whole grain bread, whole grain cereal, strawberries, kidney beans, old fashioned oats, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, yogurt, apples
FATS:
Avocado, all natural peanut butter, pumpkin seeds, sesame seed, walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, pecans
Don’t forget your supplements!
Spice up a simple grilled chicken salad with apple slices, walnuts, and feta cheese.
Treat yourself to pecan-encrusted salmon or sesame-seared tuna.
Change up the cooking method with grilling, baking, and broiling.
One simple meal is salmon salad on whole wheat bread with sliced avocado and tomato, delicious!
When to Eat:
Try to schedule snacks and meals about 3-4 hours apart. The last meal of the day should be about three hours prior to bedtime. Eating on a consistent schedule will reduce hunger and cravings by keeping blood-sugar levels consistent. Increased frequency will help maintain energy throughout the day and keep that metabolism burning strong. Some may even notice less irritability and an elevated mood. You may find this regimen tough at first but stick to your guns. After a week or two, the commitment will be easier to follow, and you will look forward to your meals. Even bad food temptations will seem less appealing. Take the challenge. Your body will thank you.
Here is to creating a new you!