(Note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and we will be compensated when you make a purchase by clicking through our links at no additional cost to you.)
Making healthy eating a priority is an essential part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, this can be a difficult task, especially with so many unhealthy food options readily available. Therefore, it’s important to learn how to make healthy choices and prioritize your health when it comes to eating. Here are 20 simple ways to make healthy eating a priority in your life.
1) Start Now
Don’t wait for the perfect moment to start eating healthily. Start with your next meal instead of putting it off until tomorrow, next Monday, or next month. Even if you’ve already had a chocolate bar or a piece of cake today, you can still start making healthier choices now.
2) Choose Sugar-Free Drinks
Sugary drinks can add a lot of unnecessary calories to your diet. So, when you’re offered a drink, choose a sugar-free option like water, a hot drink without sugar, or a “diet” fizzy drink.
3) Plan Your Meals In Advance
Create a weekly meal plan, so you always have healthy meal options available. This also helps you avoid making impulsive, unhealthy food choices when you’re hungry.
>>> Check Out This Easy To Use Printable 7-Day Meal Plan
4) Cut Out Alcohol
Alcohol is high in calories and can increase your appetite while lowering your inhibitions. Cutting it out for a few weeks or having a few alcohol-free days each week can help you stay on track with your healthy eating and activity plans.
5) Snack on Fruit
Limit yourself to fruit or veg for between-meal snacks instead of cookies or sweets. These options are low in calories, provide plenty of nutrients, and help you reach your 5-a-day goal.
6) Keep Healthy Snacks On Hand
Stock up on healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, and seeds to avoid reaching for unhealthy options when you’re hungry.
7) Choose Whole, Nutrient-Dense Foods
Opt for whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to ensure you’re getting all the essential nutrients your body needs.
>>> Read more: Discover the power of nutritious and delicious eating with the Mayo Clinic Diet’s expertly crafted meal plan. Click here.
8) Only Eat When You’re Hungry
Avoid eating out of habit or boredom. Instead, make sure you have three balanced meals a day that are regularly spaced out. If you do get hungry between meals, reach for some fruit.
9) Have a Healthy Weekend
Aim to stick with your healthy eating habits as much as possible throughout the week, including the weekends. Find healthy versions of your normal weekend treats and choose activities that will keep you active.
10) Fill Your Plate with Vegetables
Increasing the amount of veg and salad on your plate can help lower the calories while still providing a variety of foods and food groups. Use a smaller plate to reduce the amount you eat.
11) Take Lunch to Work
Making your own packed lunch makes it easier to make healthy choices and check the nutrition information.
12) Avoid Skipping Meals
Skipping meals can lead to overeating and poor food choices later in the day. Aim to eat regular, balanced meals throughout the day to keep your body fueled and energized.
13) Drink Plenty Of Water
Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, and drinking water can also help reduce feelings of hunger and prevent overeating.
>>> Discover The Best Water Bottles to Help You Stay Hydrated
14) Limit Processed Foods And Sugar
Processed foods and sugary drinks can be high in calories and low in nutrients. Limiting these foods can help you maintain a healthy diet.
15) Find Healthy Alternatives
If you have a favorite unhealthy food, try to find a healthier alternative. For example, swap out French fries for baked sweet potato fries.
16) Make Healthy Eating A Habit
Making healthy eating a habit takes time and effort, but it’s worth it. Set achievable goals and celebrate your successes along the way.
17) Use Measuring Cups and Spoons
Using measuring cups or spoons is a quick and simple way to control portions, especially if the amount you eat creeps up over time. For oils and spreads, it’s particularly important to measure your portions.
18) Cook Your Own Meals
Cooking your own meals gives you complete control over what you eat and the ingredients you use. You can choose healthier options and experiment with different recipes and flavors.
19) Eat Mindfully
Pay attention to your food and how it makes you feel. This means eating slowly, savoring your food, and enjoying the experience. It can help you recognize when you’re full and avoid overeating.
20) Don’t Wait to Change Everything, Focus On What You Can Control
It’s easy for healthy eating and exercise to take a back seat. But by prioritizing quick wins and taking action on the things within your power, you can make a fresh start and avoid falling back into old habits.
Making healthy eating a priority is all about making small changes that can have a big impact on your health. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can start making healthier choices and feeling better about your overall health and well-being.
