Getting and staying healthy is a lot easier than you might think, starting with something as simple as a good diet. This alone can keep serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes at bay, and if you already have these illnesses, it can help manage them. We all have our unique “healthy eating” strategies, but what we all aim for is to consistently consume foods and drinks that supply our bodies with the nutrients they need. How can you make healthy eating a lifelong commitment? Let’s talk about some tried and true strategies.
Good nutrition is essentially the framework of good health. It means eating foods full of vitamins and minerals, while keeping fat intake low. High-fiber foods are generally a good pick, and everyone can benefit from having five servings of fruits and vegetables every day. It also involves watching portion sizes to avoid overeating.
Healthy eating and regular exercise are the basics of good health. But don’t get sucked into quick-fix diets that are tough to stick with and might even be harmful. Instead, focus on sustainable options like roti and understand what it contributes to your daily calorie intake.
If you answer “yes” to any of the questions below, it may be time to talk with a healthcare professional about your diet:
Did your doctor mention a health condition or risk factor, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels?
Did they say better nutrition might improve your health condition?
Do you have a family history of diseases like diabetes, cancer, heart disease, or osteoporosis?
Have you gained weight over the years or are overweight now?
Unsure about what foods you should eat or if you should consider dietary supplements?
Do you think you would benefit from speaking to a nutritionist or a dietitian specializing in nutritional counseling?
Here are three tips to improve your health and boost your well-being:
First, examine your diet: Are you eating 4-5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day? Getting enough calcium? Including whole grains and high-fiber foods? If you’re on track, great! If not, try to include more of these healthy foods in your meals.
Second, keep track of what you eat and drink every day: This can give you valuable insights into your diet and let you know where changes are needed.
Third, consider getting advice from a dietitian: They can give you specific dietary guidance, especially if you have health problems.
For healthier eating, try cutting down on unhealthy fats. If your diet usually includes lots of fatty foods, consider these changes:
Bake, grill, or broil your meat instead of frying. Remove the skin from chicken or turkey before cooking, and include fish in your diet at least once a week.
Cut down on extras like butter on bread or high-calorie salad dressings. Choose low-fat or fat-free alternatives.
Eat more fruits and vegetables, either as part of meals or as snacks.
Read nutrition labels before buying food items. If you’re having trouble understanding them, ask your healthcare provider or dietitian for help.
When eating out, watch out for hidden fats and too-large portions.
Staying hydrated is also essential. Choose zero or low calorie drinks like water or tea over sugary drinks.
Remember, there’s no quick fix for improving nutrition. A balanced, varied diet based on whole foods is the best approach.
Be wary of diet plans or products that look too good to be true. Sometimes, those celebrity endorsements come with compensation and may not disclose potential complications.
Lastly, set realistic dietary goals. Whether you’re reducing unhealthy fats, or making small dietary changes, remember that your health is worth it.
[About the author:]
Anamika Singh, the content marketer at Rotimatic, combines her professional expertise with her personal experience. As a mother of two, she offers valuable insight about parenting, cooking, home appliances, and home maintenance. Her readers appreciate her work for its practical advice and actionable tips. When she’s not writing or taking care of her family, you can find Anamika in the kitchen cooking up a storm or lost in a good book.
