Being healthy depends a lot on your daily habits. From what you eat to how much you move, everything counts. And if you think there is no turning back from an unhealthy lifestyle, you are wrong. There is always room for improvement and baby steps can make a huge difference. Here are some of the adjustments that will change your life completely and help you become a healthier version of yourself.
Stock on healthy vegetables
Next time when you go grocery shopping, stay away from starchy vegetables and stock on healthier alternatives. Why?
Well, starchy vegetables have significantly more calories and generous amounts of carbs. If you’re uncertain which are those vegetables you should stay away from, think or corn, potatoes, in all their variations, but also navy beans. The healthiest options are leafy greens, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, tomatoes, bell peppers, and so on.
Fill at least half of your plate with this type of vegetables. Going on a healthy diet has never been easier than this. You will give your body a ton of nutrients, fibres, and water. Plus, it will help you get fuller sooner, for fewer calories. Especially if you try to lose some weight, swapping some meat and starchy foods for healthier options can go a long way.
Buy new plates and bowls
Swap your generous bowls and plates with smaller options. This will help tremendously. Generally, people are oblivious to how much they actually eat. They simply fill their plates with food and dig in until everything on their plate is finished. When you eat out of large bowls or plates, you are more likely to consistently overindulge in your food. So, use this smart trick and get more control over your portions and calorie intake.
Unprocessed carbs
Do you like fries? It may be the time to ditch them, no matter how much you like them. Simple carbs are also known as empty carbs. They are almost completely empty of any nutritional value and they are only some extra calories you add to your diet, without any further advantage. Besides, these are also known to increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes, heart conditions and chronic illness.
Forget about things like white bread, white flour, white rice. These will only add up to your daily calorie count. Choose instead whole, unprocessed carbs. Brown rice, whole wheat and bread, these all contain a ton of vitamins, fibres, minerals and nutrients.
Fresh fruits go a long way
You can always give your morning oatmeal a kick by adding some fresh fruit to it. Fruits are the cornerstone of a healthy diet. They have high fibre content; they are packed with vitamins and minerals. They also contain a lot of water, making you feel fuller for longer. Besides, they are a perfect source of polyphenols, a series of compounds that offer incredible health benefits. These are a series of powerful antioxidants that help the body combat inflammation and the effects of living in a toxic and polluted environment. They can also help combat the risks of developing a series of life-threatening conditions, including heart disease and diabetes.
Get moving
Start moving today, it is never too late! No matter what you choose, keep it regular and varied. You can even consider playing netball for its health benefits. This sport is proven to improve cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal health, and contribute to the weight loss process. Regardless of your gender and endurance, you can find teams that fit your needs exactly.
If you are a clumsy person, you should know netball also improves hand-eye coordination. As compared to a lot of sports you may choose to become healthier, netball can also help improve your flexibility.
Besides, it is an affordable sport to get involved in. it doesn’t require specialised equipment or facilities. You can play it anytime, anywhere.
Fatty fish is your best friend
Fatty fish is one of the healthiest protein sources out there. Fatty fish like salmon is a perfect source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B and other nutrients that contribute to overall better health. For instance, people that consume fish have better cognitive functions, are more energetic, struggle with less mental challenges, experience less chronic inflammation and so on. Besides, omega-3 fatty acids are also known for their DNA repair abilities.
To enjoy all the health benefits of fish, have at least two servings weekly. They will surely turn you into a healthier version of yourself!
OTC supplements and vitamins
Let’s get this straight. Your diet is the biggest contributor to your overall health. However, over-the-counter supplements and vitamins can help you get all nutrients and minerals that are almost impossible to take from a healthy diet. Your body can’t absorb all the nutrients you feed it and sometimes, it will need a little help on your part.
Two of the best supplements you can consider taking are fish oil and soluble fibre. The latter will help you feel fuller for longer, will reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels, while fish oil supplements will offer you a healthy and well-deserved dose of omega-3
Have your coffee black and plain
If you love your coffee just as much as we do, you should aim to have a healthier version of it each time you indulge in this super-beverage. If you like to fill your cup with cream, sugar and other unhealthy spices, give those up. Plain black coffee is a great source of antioxidants and it has so little calories, unlike its creamy-sugary cousin.
Green tea, the pinnacle of Asian health
The pinnacle of Asian health and lifestyle, green tea is an incredible source of antioxidants and nutrients. There are a lot of studies that have shown that people who regularly drink green tea tend to live longer, experience less inflammation and have lower risks of developing diabetes.
These small changes can help you transform your life completely. They can help you become healthier, more energetic and always ready to face the challenges the next day might bring.
