Food gives our bodies the energy it needs to perform its everyday activities. Although it is also a source of pleasure, all those diets we hear about can make food a headache and a source of frustration. Here are ten simple rules you can follow to improve your nutrition.
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# 1: Eat vegetables at breakfast
It may sound a bit odd at first. But if you think about it, vegetables are a good source of fibre and antioxidants. So, try eating an American-style breakfast: Eggs, avocado, tomatoes, etc... As a bonus, you’ll probably be less hungry at lunchtime.
# 2: Add a little protein to your breakfast
According to research, 30g of protein is enough to maintain and increase muscle mass. Eating three eggs will give you 21g of protein, which will bring you closer to that 30g. A few options: Greek yoghurt, cheese or a little protein powder in a pancake.
# 3: Snack smart
The problem with snacking is that we usually make poor choices (in terms of nutritional value) and snack on very addictive food. In short, it’s the easiest way to gain (or not lose) fat. Try to snack on hard-boiled eggs, pickles, apples or some olives. They’re easy to eat and much better for your body.
# 4: Eat more apples
Another snack time option. Apples are full of fibre, which will make you feel full. If you’re hungry, eat an apple. If you’re hungry because you’re bored, eat an apple. If you just want to eat an apple, then eat an apple.
# 5: Add herbs to your food
Herbs are very low in calories, but rich in antioxidants. Most importantly, they add flavour to your turkey and rice. Try to use a variety of herbs and you’ll notice your food is a lot tastier.
# 6: Add some spice to your food
Just like herbs, spices are low in calories and there's an endless number of them to choose from. Adding them to your food will introduce you to new flavours. You can also add some chilli or any other spicy spice to enhance the taste of your food.
# 7: Always add some salt to your dishes
When we think of salt, we usually think about the problems that are linked to it. But just like everything else, salt isn’t harmful to the body if it is consumed sparingly. Plus, it’s a flavour enhancer. Adding a pinch to every dish or even to your cake will give it more flavour.
# 8: Eat fruit for dessert
This may sound like a no-brainer, but eating a fruit or two for dessert is a good alternative to a calorific (and sugar-filled) chocolate pudding. And no, fruit pie doesn’t qualify.
# 9: Create an internal clock before going to bed
To avoid snacking, create good habits. After each meal, have one last snack if you need to, then tell yourself that you're done. Remind yourself that the more you eat, the more you’ll have to digest and, as a result, you’ll get less sleep.
# 10: Enjoy your food
Last but not least: enjoy your food. Many diets are too extreme and prevent you from enjoying your food, which can become frustrating. The best way to stick to a healthy lifestyle is to eat foods that you enjoy. Be curious and open-minded.
