In this fast-paced life, people are relying more on fast food as it is something you can eat on the go. The market is flooded with ready-made meals, such as breakfast bars, frozen dinners, and pre-packaged snacks which are easily available at grocery stores and fast-food restaurants. Unfortunately, these quick and easy options are highly processed and often high in calories yet offer little or no nutritional value. They are the biggest sources of added sugar & sodium and are loaded with artificial chemicals, artificial colors, flavors, additives, emulsifier, and preservatives. Consumption of these unhealthy foods can be disastrous as it leads to various lifestyle disorders (heart disease, obesity, cancer, diabetes, etc.) To live a healthy and sustainable lifestyle, healthy food consumption is very essential.
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Healthy Food Consumption
Whatever we put in our mouth can directly affect our overall well being. In order to live a healthy lifestyle, instead of making poor food choices, try to consume healthy food. Eating well is a big part of being healthy. Make sure to give your body the nutrients it needs by eating a portion of balanced, nutrient-packed food. This includes a variety of fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables. Just make sure to incorporate as many colors as you can on your plate for each meal. Apart from these, include whole grains, good fats, lean proteins, and low-fat or fat-free dairy in your regular diet. Keep your body hydrated and avoid all sugary aerated drinks.
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One more thing- ‘Never skip your meals!’ Skipping meals can slow down your metabolism which leads to weight gain. It is always better to consume 5-6 mini-meals throughout the day instead of having 3 big meals a day.
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Set Healthy Eating Goals
Initially, it might be hard to change your eating habits. No doubt, radical and sudden changes like going vegan or vegetarian are quite difficult for everyone. It helps if you set small goals and change your lifestyle a little bit at a time. Start at your house first! Head into the kitchen and throw out all the over-processed, unhealthy foods (candy, chips, cookies, soda, sugar-laden fruit juice, etc.), if there is any. Now that the junk is in the trash and your kitchen cabinets are bare, it’s time to think about healthy alternatives.
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Plan well and make a list before heading towards a grocery store. And yes, never shop for groceries on an empty stomach. In that case, you might end up indulging in calorie-dense, easy-to-consume junk foods. Make sure to eat a nutritious snack before making healthy shopping decisions. While buying, be sure to read food labels, become familiar with lists of ingredients, and take notice of everything you consume. Reducing junk food is good for your wallet and waist too.
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Remember, slow and steady wins the race! Making such smaller, more achievable and gradual changes in routine are more realistic. Over time, you will notice a big difference in your health.