Make Healthy Choices Easier with Nutrition Awareness
We’ve all heard the saying, “you are what you eat.” And it’s (partially) true! What you consume has a direct influence on your organs, systems, energy levels, lifestyle choices, and the overall state of your health. While the rapid pace of life makes it easy to fall into a less than healthy pattern when selecting what foods to eat, it’s important to be aware of what you’re feeding your body daily. By having an awareness of your nutritional intake, you can make a commitment to understanding the types of food you eat, how it fuels your body, and how it makes you feel. Here are five simple reminders that will help you make more informed decisions about your nutritional intake.
Eat Mindfully
The hustle and bustle of life can make fitting in proper meals nearly impossible. But no matter where you are, take the time (away from distractions!) to become aware of each bite you’re taking. Focus on what and how you are eating and savor the entire experience. This awareness can have a profound impact and ensure you make better food choices and genuinely enjoy what you eat, rather than just going through the motions.
Pay Attention to Labels
You’ve meal planned, taken stock of your refrigerator, freezer, and cabinets, and made your grocery list. Now the hard – but worth it! – part. Don’t just grab and drop in the cart when going up and down the aisles. Take the time to read labels and understand the ingredient list. Take note of hidden or added sugars, an abundance of sodium, unhealthy fats, and overly processed items and avoid those types of products. Your body will thank you!
Diversify Your Choices
Boredom can set in easily if the same rotation of food is always on the menu. And that boredom could force you to explore other options which you may deem more exciting but that don’t actually contribute to your nutritional needs (we’re looking at you, potato chips!)
Avoid this pitfall by exploring different produce options or macronutrients (carbs, proteins, and fats), healthy grains, flavors, recipes, and ingredients to introduce diversity into your diet. This will keep meals exciting while also maximizing nutritional intake.
Snack Smart
Eliminate barriers for yourself and set up easy access to fruits and veggies by cleaning them when you unpack them from your grocery haul. If they are in your fridge ready to go, you’ll be more likely to grab a cup of pre-washed berries or crunchy carrots and dip. It is also a great way to balance essential micronutrients the body needs to function.
Have Some Fun
Don’t take all the fun out of food! Let nutrition take you on a journey. Experiment with a recipe or try that new restaurant in town with some friends. Challenge yourself to eat more colorful fruits and veggies that will offer different vitamins and antioxidants, stop by your local farmers market, or encourage family and friends to join the journey with you. Whatever might best fit your lifestyle, pick something that will help you stay aware of nutrients you are putting in your body in a way that doesn’t feel restrictive.
The great thing about all of these tips is that you can start small. Implementing small changes over time will help you become more aware of what you consume and how those foods and drinks make you feel. By fostering an understanding of the nutritional value of foods, embracing mindful eating practices, and making informed choices, you can live a life full of awareness that contributes to your long-term well-being.
