The New Year is here and there’s no better time to start adopting some healthy habits than now. If you can’t think of any good habits to take up, try one of these:
Control your portions
It shouldn’t be news to anyone that portion control is a major key to healthy eating. But, in this world of supersized everything, it’s almost impossible to maintain control over portion size. Now is the time to take the bull by the horns. Start by evaluating the dishes you are using. Using smaller plates helps to give the illusion that there is more food than there actually is. This one small act can help cut calories. Also, try to leave just a little bit of food on your plate. Pay attention to your appetite and don’t continue eating once you’re full. Making small but consistent efforts will add up to better eating habits by the time next New Years Eve comes around.
Reduce sodium consumption
Collectively, Americans consume much more sodium than the recommended daily allowance. The problem with this is that over-consumption of sodium is strongly connected to severe health problems such as hypertension and heart diseases. Further, too much sodium in your diet can make you retain water and bloat, which results in unnecessary weight gain. The problem is, many of us consume sodium in ways we don’t even realize. Processed foods are full of sodium, even if they don’t taste salty. In order to truly reduce sodium intake, be sure to limit the use of the saltshaker and read labels of all processed foods. Keep in mind the RDA of sodium is just six grams or one teaspoon!
Strength train
Watching what we consume isn’t enough. We also need to be mindful of how we burn those calories, too. It’s not enough to lace up the sneakers and go for a run. It’s important it get in some strength training as well. Strength training doesn’t need to take a major time commitment. Spending only 10 minutes a day will produce positive results. You’ll quickly get the benefits of an increased metabolism, extra energy and stronger bones. If you’re afraid of lifting weights, there’s no need to worry. You can strength train without picking up a dumbbell. Squats, lunges and pushups are just a few strength exercises that can be done without the use of weights.
If none of these ideas floats your boat, pick something else – but don’t let the 2015 go by without doing at least one thing to improve your life!
