New Year’s resolutions can be a great way to set goals and make positive changes in your life. If you’re thinking about making a diet-related resolution for the new year, here are a few tips that may help:
- Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is important for overall health which in turn will help you feel your best. Here are a few tips on staying hydrated:
- Drink plenty of water: The recommended amount for women is around 2.7 litres a day and 3.7 for men.
- Eat water-rich foods: Many fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, cucumber, and strawberries, are high in water content.
- Fluids with meals: Sipping on fluids throughout the day, especially with meals, can help you stay hydrated.
- Keep a water bottle with you: Having a water bottle with you throughout the day can help you remember to drink fluids regularly.
Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and drink fluids when you are thirsty. Staying hydrated has many health benefits, so be sure to make it a priority.
- Limit your sugar intake
Limiting your sugar intake can be a healthy goal, as too much sugar can contribute to weight gain and other health problems such as diabetes, kidney disease and gout. Choosing whole, unprocessed foods to include in your diet is a great way to reducing sugar. These are often lower in added sugars than processed foods.
Remember, it’s okay to indulge in sugary treats occasionally, if they are balanced with nourishing foods. Be kind to yourself, and don’t get discouraged if you have a setback. Cutting out sugar is a process, and it’s important to be patient and persistent.
- Eat more fruit and veg
Eating enough fruit and veg is important for a number of reasons. They are often rich in nutrients, good for the environment and help to reduce risk of certain health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Here are a few tips that may help you increase your intake:
- Make them convenient: Keep a supply of pre-cut fruit and vegetables in the fridge so they are easy to grab when you’re short on time.
- Add them to your meals: Incorporate vegetables into your meals by adding them to soups, casseroles, and pasta dishes, or by serving them as a side dish. You can also add fruit to your meals by including it in salads, topping your breakfast cereal with it, or adding it to smoothies.
- Snack on them: Keep a supply of whole fruits and vegetables on hand for snacks. They can be just as convenient as processed snack foods and are often just as satisfying.
- Experiment with new types: Trying new fruits and vegetables can help keep things interesting.
- Try to maintain a balanced diet
A balanced diet is one that includes a variety of different types of foods in the right proportions, so that you are getting all the nutrients your body needs to function properly. A balanced diet typically includes carbohydrates, protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals. In addition to including a variety of different types of foods, it’s also important to pay attention to portion sizes and to consume only as many calories as your body needs. Eating a balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of various health problems.
Sticking to a good diet can be challenging and may require willpower in order to commit. However, it’s important not to feel discouraged: If you slip up and make an unhealthy choice, don’t beat yourself up over it. Everyone makes mistakes, and it’s important to be kind to yourself and get back on track with your next meal or snack.
