Introducing Greens-N-Grains' Healthy Tips! Check the GNG page each month for Healthy Tips to keep you in the know on how to live a healthier lifestyle.
Nutrition Tips for January
The start of a New Year is a time when many people make resolutions to improve their health. However, research has found that fewer than 10% of people are successful at keeping their New Year’s resolutions. There are some ways to make you more successful at building new healthy habits.
Here are some tips for making New Year’s resolutions that will work and help you to eat healthier this year:
Start small and Be Specific
Pick a new healthy behavior that you can easily carry out. Be specific about what you want to accomplish. For example, instead of “I want to eat healthier” try “I will eat a serving of fruit or vegetables with each meal.” Pick something you think you can accomplish to improve your chances of success.
Reward Yourself and Forgive Yourself
Plan little rewards as you work to achieve your goals. This could be something like purchasing a new kitchen tool to help you prepare healthy meals or treating yourself to an afternoon at your favorite park. Set a timeframe for your rewards such as planning something after each week of following your plan. If you make a mistake, don’t give up. Forgive yourself and try again tomorrow.
Get social
Try to find friends or family that will cheer you on as your work towards your health goal. You could even join a group or club that could help to motivate you. If possible, avoid people or situations that will make you more likely to give up on your goals.
Here are some ideas for simple resolutions to start eating healthier in the New Year:
Pick one day (or one meal) each week to eat plant-based or meatless
Pack a healthy breakfast to take to work each morning instead of fast food
Eat 3 to 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day
Replace one sugary drink each day with water
Switch a refined grain to a wholegrain option. Start with trying whole wheat bread instead of white bread.
Sit at the table instead of eating in front of the TV.
Switch out a packaged snack for a whole food option like a piece of fruit and nuts or cheese.
Whatever resolution you try in the new year, remember that even small steps can add up to big improvements in your health over time.
Wishing you a happy and healthy 2023!
