When people think of the phrase, “eating healthy,” they may think of gross and bland food, deprivation and slaving to a strict diet. While this definition of “eating healthy” may hold true to some individuals, I would like to disagree.
Eating healthy shouldn’t be a form of self-punishment and it shouldn’t cause any added anxiety or stress to one’s daily life. Making healthy food choices should make you feel strong, energetic and good about your overall well-being. By following these four tips, you can help improve your own mindset and change your definition of “eating healthy.”
Tip #1 — Some carbs are actually good for you: don’t fear them. Common misconceptions individuals have when eating healthier is that all carbs are unhealthy and should be avoided like the plague. While some carbs aren’t exactly healthy — such as products made with enriched flour, pastries, white pasta, and white breads — there are some healthy products too. Whole grains, such as brown rice, whole grain breads, whole grain crackers and whole grain cereals are full of fiber and natural protein. The difference between enriched-flour products and whole grain products is that enriched flour products have been stripped of the grain’s natural nutrients and are absorbed by the body as a starch. When the body processes it into a starch, you stay fuller for a shorter period of time and you can experience a rollercoaster sugar high and low. Whole grain products, on the other hand, are absorbed by the body differently because they are digested slower, which allows you to feel fuller longer and prevent you from overeating.
Tip #2 — Sweeten it up naturally: Artificial sweeteners, such as Splenda and Equal, boast having “zero calories” on their nutrition labels, which can sound very appealing and “healthy.” However, don’t let this “zero calorie” substance fool you. These artificial sweeteners are basically comprised of chemicals that aren’t even supposed to be digested. Not so healthy now, right? Skip the Splenda and stick with the natural stuff, such as honey, natural sugar cane, and even the natural zero-calorie sweetener Stevia. Although honey and natural sugar in the raw have calories, they are comprised of chemical-free and natural sugars. These natural sugars are easily digestible and provide your body with natural energy, which can sustain you for a while.
Tip #3 — Protein is the key: Another common mistake people make when trying to eat healthy is that they deprive themselves of food, then end up really hungry and tired throughout the day, which causes them to end up binge eating to make up for the lack of nutrients throughout the day. Deprivation and starvation do not equal healthy. Although portion control is important and overeating is not encouraged, it is important to make sure every meal or snack is high in protein.
Protein is important because it keeps you fuller longer, gives you lots of energy and prevents you from overindulging and craving extra snack items throughout the day. It is important that every meal or snack include a form of protein so that your body can feel healthy and strong. The next time you eat a salad, add some lean chicken breast or maybe a little bit of nuts or beans to add some healthy energy to an otherwise skimpy plate of lettuce.
Tip #4 — Don’t deprive yourself: One mistake people can make when attempting to make healthier decisions is that they can begin to feel like a slave to a “diet” and end up depriving themselves. This mindset is harmful for two reasons: First, food is supposed to be enjoyed, and making healthier decisions shouldn’t cause stress or become a chore. Second, the word “diet” is negative because makes it seems as if all junk food should be completely avoided and never touched again. Moderation is key and the more you deprive yourself from something, the more you will want to indulge in it.
Most importantly, eating healthy does not equal starving yourself. It is essential to eat balanced meals, but indulging in a little junk food every now and then is important too. By just making a few healthy alterations and substitutions to your eating habits, you can make healthier decisions that do not make you feel like you are a slave to a bland and boring diet.
