Article written by Brittney Newsome
Eating healthy is often considered expensive and challenging. The truth is healthy eating does not need to be complicated or break the bank. It is easy to feel confused by the ongoing media attention to the latest diet fad but the key to good nutrition is really all about consistency. The choice to consistently choose healthy food and beverages. Over time those healthy choices will become healthy habits that will lead to an overall healthier lifestyle. Making these changes as a part of your everyday life will reduce your risk of chronic diseases and aid in the maintenance of a healthy weight.
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, most people in the United States need to adjust their eating patterns to increase their intake of dietary fiber, calcium, vitamin D, and potassium. At the same time, statistics show that Americans need to consume less added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium. Below are some nutrition basics divided into categories to help you get started on your journey to a healthier lifestyle.
According to the CDC, research shows that people get full by the amount of food they eat, not the number of calories they take in. You can cut calories in your favorite foods by lowering the amount of fat and or increasing the amount of fiber-rich ingredients, such as vegetables or fruit. Eating fewer calories doesn’t necessarily mean eating less food.
Remember small steps lead to big results. Over time, you’ll figure out meal-preparation short-cuts and it will become easier to make healthy meals a regular occurrence.
Information sourced from cdc.gov and dietaryguidlines.gov.