The start of the new year is the perfect opportunity to begin new habits. The second most popular New Year’s resolution is to eat healthier. Part of “eating healthy”, can include changing the WAY you eat. Without even changing the foods you are eating, by being more mindful, you can start to shift towards healthier eating.
It has been well studied that eating with distractions such as watching TV or scrolling social media can cause overeating or binge eating. Try to eat at least 1 of your meals a day sitting at the table with your family, or if you live alone, listening to some soft music.
Choose a plate smaller than you usually would. We usually feel an inner pressure to finish everything on our plate. With a smaller plate, you’ll likely serve yourself less food. Aim to have half of your plate vegetables, one quarter protein, and one quarter carbohydrates.
Before you eat, take a minute to appreciate where your food came from. The people involved in growing, preparing, packaging and cooking the food. Eat slowly, listening for cues from your body letting you know you are full.
If you make yourself write down everything you ate in the day, you might find yourself making better decisions, especially, when it comes to snacking or eating out of boredom.
A big shift in eating habits doesn’t have to happen all at once. Smaller changes over time can lead to better success. Always be gentle on yourself. It’s okay to an “off” day. The more you practice mindful eating, the healthier your eating habits will become.
For more information about nutrition, call our LBU WIC Nutritionist to get started today! (214)761-0956
