Spring is here, and it’s a great time to start eating healthier, so you can be ready for summer and maintain your ideal weight and wellness. Here are ten steps you can take to begin eating healthier this spring.
1. Turn on the Grill
Grilling is one of the healthiest ways to cook. When you are grilling, you can use lean cuts of meat, such as turkey and chicken. You can also add some seafood to your grilling: salmon, shrimp, scallops, and fish. Also, you can get creative and make some vegetable kebabs.
2. Eat Fruits and Vegetables
Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables will help you get healthier and active this spring. Add some kale, spinach, and asparagus to your salads and main dishes for a nutrient-rich meal. Also, trade your sweets for berries, apples, and citrus fruits. Don’t forget some healthy snacks, such as carrot sticks, tomatoes, and bell peppers.
3. Meal Prep
If you have no time for cooking, start meal prepping. It will help you save time and stay organized with your meals. Every Sunday, plan your weekly meals, such as lunch and dinner. You can make some healthy soups or casseroles that you can store in the fridge and freeze.
4. Hi-Protein Recipes
Protein is an essential nutrient that helps the body grow and repair itself. Consuming protein-rich products can help you keep a healthy diet. You can try some tasty vegan recipes, such as oat pancakes, quinoa salads, zucchini boats, lentil burgers, and more.
5. Cut Out Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks can hinder your health goals, so focus on drinking water as much as possible. You can also include some flavored water, green tea, and vegetable juice to your daily routine. Additionally, you can make some smoothies and add some fruits to give them flavor.
6. Keep It Balanced
When creating your meals, try to include the three main nutrients: protein, fat, and carbohydrates. This way, you will have balanced meals that will fill you up for longer.
7. Try New Recipes
If you are tired of your usual recipes, it’s time to try something different. Look for some healthier recipes in books and online. The internet is full of delicious and nutritious dishes that you can try this spring.
8. Make Breakfast Important
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. To get the most out of it, try to include some protein-rich foods, such as scrambled eggs, oatmeal, yogurt, and almonds.
9. Take Healthy Snacks Everywhere
It’s essential to have some healthy snacks on hand for when cravings hit. Take some nutritious snacks with you at all times, such as nuts, carrots, apples, and berries.
10. Incorporate Exercise
Eating healthier won’t have an effect, if you don’t include some physical activity in your routine. Start with some easy exercises, such as jogging and yoga, for 30 minutes a day.
Eating healthier is a great step to take this spring, to maintain your ideal weight and wellbeing. By following these steps and being consistent, you will start seeing some positive changes in your health.
What foods should I eat to eat healthier this spring?
1. Fresh fruits and vegetables: Eating a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the best ways to get essential nutrients and help cleanse the body. Choose locally grown, seasonal options, such as asparagus, spinach, strawberries, and cherries.
2. Beans and legumes: Rich in plant-based protein and fiber, beans and legumes are a good choice for a healthy diet. Try adding lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans to salads and soups.
3. Whole grains: Choose nutritionally dense whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, spelt, buckwheat, and barley. Add them to your salads, stir-fries, and soups for a nutritional and flavorful boost.
4. Omega-3 rich foods: Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds, can not only help lower inflammation, but also help reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
5. Fermented foods: Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and tempeh are full of probiotics that help keep your digestive system in balance. Make sure to include small amounts in your meals.
6. Healthy fats: Healthy fats like extra-virgin olive oil, avocado, and nuts are essential for overall health. Use them in moderation to get the nutritional benefits without consuming too many calories.
What vegetables are high in fiber and antioxidants?
-Artichokes
-Beets
-Broccoli
-Brussels sprouts
-Cabbage
-Carrots
-Kale
-Okra
-Spinach
-Sweet potatoes
-Swiss chard
-Turnips
What vegetables are good for weight loss?
Broccoli, spinach, kale, cauliflower, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, celery, cucumber, zucchini, asparagus, eggplants, mushrooms, and artichokes are all good for weight loss. Most vegetables are low in calories, yet high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which all help the body to burn fats and lose weight.
What vegetables should I avoid while trying to lose weight?
You should avoid foods like potatoes, corn, squash, and parsnips, as these foods are typically high in carbohydrates and can contribute to weight gain. Foods like beans, lentils, and peas are also high in carbohydrates and should also be avoided. Additionally, processed vegetables such as french fries and onion rings should be avoided. Finally, some vegetables, such as celery, cucumbers, and lettuce, are mostly composed of water and fiber, but have very few calories, so they may be beneficial to include in a weight-loss program.
