New year, new eating habits: Healthy eating options that will last all year
The start of the new year is often the time when we set new goals for what we want to accomplish: saving money, getting stronger or eating healthier. For those wishing to eat healthy in the new year and make sure it lasts, Roberta Anding, a registered dietitian at Baylor College of Medicine, says to make sure your goals are sustainable and relevant.
“While everyone is different, it’s really important first to take a step back and determine what you are doing well and think about what you need to improve on,” Anding said.
Next, she says you should try to find ways to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your meals – both can be great sources of fiber and contain disease-fighting compounds. For working professionals, it can be hard to come home from work to cut and chop up these fruits and vegetables, so Anding suggests buying them frozen.
“If your default is that you’re into too much of a time crunch, go frozen. Grocery and big box stores have different fruit blends and medleys to choose from,” Anding said.
Focus on your protein. Anding adds that while protein is very popular at the moment, you don’t need that new bagged snack at the grocery store that highlights its amount of protein. Instead, think about how you can incorporate real protein sources into your breakfast, lunch, and dinner, such as eggs, meat, fish, rice and beans.
Also, do a snack inventory. When you snack throughout the day, do you go for cookies or a bag of chips?
“Be mindful of what snacks you are choosing. If you are thinking about snack options while at work, consider investing in high-quality, healthy, convenient snacks, like turkey jerky or individual packages of popcorn, edamame, beans or nuts,” Anding said.
If you are on any dietary continuum, whether you are a vegan or participating in the carnivore lifestyle, think about what essential nutrients you are missing. Are you getting enough fiber? What about your calcium intake?
Overall, give yourself grace.
“Don’t focus on what you aren’t eating and think that your diet needs to be overhauled. Think about the things you are doing well,” Anding said.
By Taylor Barnes
