Nourish Your Resolutions: A Nutritionist's Guide to a Healthier New Year
New Year's resolutions are a great opportunity to set goals and make positive changes in your life. But let's face it, sticking to a diet can be hard, especially when it comes to maintaining a nutritionally balanced diet. However, with a little planning and determination, you can make it happen. Here are a few reasons why a nutritionally balanced diet should be at the top of your New Year's resolution list and how to implement it:
A nutritionally balanced diet can improve your overall health: Eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats can lower your risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. It also helps in maintaining a healthy weight and can improve your energy levels.
A nutritionally balanced diet can boost your mood: Eating a diet that is rich in nutrient-dense foods can help to improve your mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
A nutritionally balanced diet can save you money: Eating a diet that is mostly made up of whole foods can be more affordable than relying on processed or packaged foods. Plus, you'll save money on medical bills in the long run.
A nutritionally balanced diet can be delicious: Eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods can be delicious and satisfying. Experiment with new recipes and ingredients to find meals that you love.
So, how do you implement a nutritionally balanced diet? Start by planning your meals in advance. Make a list of healthy foods that you enjoy and then create a meal plan around them. This will help you to stay on track and make healthier choices. Also, be mindful of portion sizes, and try to eat slowly and savor your food. Another important step is to keep track of your progress. Keep a food diary or use an app to track your daily intake of nutrients. This will help you to identify any potential areas where you need to make adjustments to your diet. Lastly, don't be too hard on yourself. Remember that it's not about perfection, it's about progress. If you slip up, don't beat yourself up about it. Instead, focus on getting back on track and making healthier choices moving forward.
In conclusion, a nutritionally balanced diet should be a top priority when it comes to New Year's resolutions. It can improve your overall health, boost your mood, save you money, and be delicious. With a little planning and determination, you can make it happen. So, start planning your meals, keep track of your progress, and remember to be kind to yourself. Happy New Year!
Audrey Butler, MS, RDN, LDN is a Dietitian in Chicago who helps individuals implement a nutritionally-balanced diet to feel healthy and energized. As a vegetarian nutritionist, she knows first-hand what the journey is like to implement a nutritionally-balanced diet, vegan diet, vegetarian diet, and plant-based diet located in Chicago.