Do you find it difficult to maintain healthy eating habits? Remember that small changes, made over time, can add up.
Whether you’re planning meals to prepare at home or making selections when dining out, it’s crucial to find a healthy eating style that you can maintain.
“To make lasting, healthful changes to your eating habits, it’s important to start small,” says registered dietitian nutritionist and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics spokesperson Caroline Passerrello. “Registered dietitian nutritionists can help you develop personalized solutions that will keep you healthy and allow you to still enjoy your favorite foods throughout your entire life.”
Passerrello offers these simple ways that you can improve your dietary habits.
- Choose healthier options when cooking at home
“Eating a variety of healthful foods across and within all food groups helps reduce the risk of preventable, lifestyle-related chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type two diabetes and obesity,” says Passerrello. “Eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy, lean proteins and oils.”
- Find healthful options when dining out.
“Finding healthful options at restaurants is easier today than it ever has been,” says Passerrello. “Most restaurants offer healthful options. Look for items that are steamed or roasted, and ask for sauce, dressing and cheese on the side. To-go boxes can help control portions. Eat half your meal at the restaurant and take the other half home.”
- Set a good example for your children
Parents are the most important role models for their children. “Modeling healthful eating habits starts in the kitchen,” Passerrello says. “Involving your kids in the cooking with age-appropriate tasks, serving balanced meals with a variety of nutrient-rich foods and enjoying dinner together as often as possible are among the many things you can do to help your family be mindful of their eating habits.”
- Consult a registered dietitian nutritionist
“A healthy lifestyle is much more than choosing to eat more fruits and vegetables. While that is important, it’s also essential to make informed food choices based on your individual health and nutrient needs,” Passerrello says. “A registered dietitian nutritionist can educate you and guide your food choices while keeping your tastes and preferences in mind. They are able to separate facts from fads and translate nutrition science into information you can use.” To find a registered dietitian nutritionist in your area, visit eatright.org.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ website also includes articles, recipes, videos and educational resources to spread the message of good nutrition and an overall healthy lifestyle for people of all ages, genders and backgrounds.
Being mindful of your eating habits can improve your family’s overall health and wellness.
Information provided by StatePointMedia.
