Nutrition seems to confuse many people. However, nutrition is actually very simple if you follow a few basic rules and guidelines. This article provides several tips to help you make nutritious choices. You owe it to yourself and your family to make better food choices.
Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day to help with your weight loss. Fruits and vegetables are full of good-for-you nutrients, fiber, and vitamins. They will keep your appetite in check. These healthy foods are also low in calories which will help keep your daily calorie count low.
Make sure that you are still eating healthy while you are pregnant. Just because you have cravings for unhealthy foods does not mean that you have to cave in to them, or that you can’t find healthier alternatives. Make sure you are getting all the vitamins and minerals as suggested by your doctor.
Instead of bemoaning the fact that your favorite foods are high in fat or sugar, start focusing on the healthy foods you do like. This way you’ll be happier about eating in a health-conscious way, and you might be surprised at the number of foods that are healthy that you already like.
Avoid using too many condiments if you’re trying to eat a healthier diet. Dips, sauces, spreads and dressings may jazz up a meal and taste delicious, but they are often full of fat, salt and calories. Try cutting back on how much dressing you put on your salad and how much mayonnaise you use on your sandwich.
Follow the Mediterranean diet plan. This diet is typically followed by people who live in Greece, Spain, France and Italy. It mainly consists of fresh fish, fruit, vegetables, dairy products. wholemeal pasta and olive oil. Meat is only consumed occasionally. It isn’t really a diet, rather a lifestyle. Eat good food in moderation, and know what to avoid. Any artificial products are a no-no. Not only will you lose weight, you will feel much healthier.
Carrots are universally recommended by nutritionists. Most of us eat carrots because we like the taste. They are also rich in carotenoids, vitamins and iodine. Studies show that carrots lower blood cholesterol and reduce the risk of lung cancer. Also, carrots provide a natural source of sugar, that is safe for diabetics.
Don’t eat too many salty foods such as preserved meats, BBQ sauce, crisps, dips and processed cheese. Salt is popular with food manufacturers because it can enhance flavors and preserve food, however, diets high in salt can cause high blood pressure, dehydration and bloating. Remember, the RDI for sodium is 2300mg, about 6 teaspoons of salt.
There are a lot of simple things that you can do to get more vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids in your diet. At first it may seem really difficult, and you may be tempted to revert to your usual habits. But if you stick to make wise choices, soon it will come easily and you will even enjoy it!
