How To Make a New Year’s Resolution That You Can Actually Stick To!
2019 is just around the corner and so is that pressure to set yourself new goals for the year ahead. January is the month when many people start a new diet, and February is the month when many give up! Why not try something a little different this time around? Take the pressure off and instead of charging full steam ahead into an unsustainable all or nothing diet, make smaller, more manageable adjustments to your everyday food intake in order to feel your best for the whole of 2019. This is the approach many of us here at NetCost are planning to take. We have been thinking of ways to improve the nutritional value of our meals and we want to share them with you so that you and your family can benefit as well!
Protein first
Cereals are great, but they often lack protein. Simply swap out your cereal for a protein-based breakfast such as eggs or some Greek yogurt or quark with honey. Not only will you find yourself less hungry as the morning goes on, but you’ll feel more energetic! You don’t have to give up cereal forever but reducing your consumption to 2-3 times per week will have a huge effect.
Be mindful
It’s easy to grab food on the go, perhaps sometimes you’re lacking the time and find yourself eating snacks behind the wheel or you eat lunch at your desk as you scroll through a million emails. When we eat in this way we often don’t pay attention to the signals our body gives us and we end up overeating. Make time to eat your meals by sitting down without distractions from television, computers, or any other devices and enjoy your food. This way you will notice when you’re full and therefore when to stop.
Water, water and more water
Everybody knows that water is a necessity, so why do so many of us not drink enough?! Water is great for your hair, skin, and body in general, so invest in a new water bottle and take water with you when you’re out and about. Before reaching for those tempting treats, drink some water. We’re not always hungry when we think we are, sometimes we’re just thirsty!
Up the veggies
Vegetables are tasty, fibrous, and packed full of essential vitamins and minerals. Their low-calorie density makes them a great way to add volume to your meals without feeling naughty. Try pre-chopping carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers and keeping them in the fridge as easy on-the-go grab snacks when you find yourself in the mood for grazing!
Read the labels
It’s not realistic to give up every treat for the rest of eternity, and why should you?! Everything in moderation is okay. When you want to grab something premade, check out the nutrition labels. This way you will be aware of what you’re eating and later in the day you can alter your choices to accommodate the treat or you may find yourself not wanting to indulge at that moment after taking the time to investigate its ingredients!
Don’t get sucked into the need to make big and bold resolutions this coming new year, small adjustments are the best for ensuring longevity in your new-found eating habits!