10 Foods & 8 Tips to Kickstart Your Diet
Starting a healthy diet can be an overwhelming task for many people. However, by making small changes and incorporating nutrient-dense foods into your diet, you can improve your overall health and well-being. Here are some tips for starting a healthy diet:
- Start by making small changes: Rather than trying to overhaul your entire diet overnight, start by making small changes. This can be as simple as swapping out sugary drinks for water or incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your meals.
- Plan your meals: Planning your meals in advance can help you to make healthier choices and avoid last-minute, unhealthy options.
- Be mindful of portion sizes: Eating larger portion sizes can lead to overeating and weight gain. Be mindful of how much you’re eating and use smaller plates to help control portion sizes.
- Incorporate nutrient-dense foods into your diet: Nutrient-dense foods are foods that are high in nutrients but low in calories. Examples of nutrient-dense foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Avoid processed foods: Processed foods are often high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Avoid processed foods as much as possible, and opt for whole, unprocessed foods instead.
- Eat a variety of foods: Eating a variety of foods ensures that you’re getting a wide range of nutrients.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is important for overall health. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day.
- Listen to your body: Eating when you’re hungry, and stopping when you’re full.
To help you get started, here are 10 healthy foods that are easily consumed or prepared:
- Fruits: Berries, apples, oranges, and bananas are all great options.
- Vegetables: Leafy greens, broccoli, and bell peppers are all nutrient-dense options.
- Whole grains: Quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread are all great options.
- Lean proteins: Chicken, fish, and tofu are all great options.
- Healthy fats: Avocados, nuts, and seeds are all great options.
- Legumes: Beans, peas, and lentils are all great options.
- Yogurt: Greek yogurt is a good source of protein.
- Eggs: A great source of protein and healthy fats
- Fish: Salmon and tuna are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids
- Spices and herbs: Oregano, ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric are great options that can add flavor and nutrients to your meals.
Learn more healthy tips on our nutrition page.