TIPS FOR HEALTHY EATING HABITS

Eating healthy can be a challenge Current eating habits can be hard to change. Yet recognizing that a change is needed is the first step. At the same time remember that it is not for weight control only, but also for a healthier body that will be more disease free.

Yet those unhealthy foods taste good, are quick and easy to fix, and they give you a feeling of comfort.

But remember that it is you, your body, and your health, that your are considering, so you are the one who must decide that a change is needed.

A Few Tips May Help.

1. The cost of dieting plans in the USA is enormous. At 2 PM on 3/13/08 $6.7 billions had already been spent in 2008 on dieting in the USA alone. Now compare that with 1.2 billion people in the world that are considered over weight. Something is askew. One obvious item is that a lot of money spent by individuals may be better used elsewhere in their life.

2. Prepare a log of everything you eat for a week. Be honest and include all the snacks etc. Then take that log to your doctor and let him give you a diet that is specifically for you. A one time cost of an office call.

3. After you have seen your doctor with the log of your eating habits start yours by getting rid of the unhealthy foods in your house. Remember to get rid of alcoholics for they give empty calories. Meats with fat are another to look at closely and replace with healthier meats. If you cannot do that all at once then do it gradually over short period, say a week, but do it. Replace junk foods with fresh fruits and vegetables. And if you crave a sweet get a low fat yogurt or some chocolate chips used for cooking.

While you are doing that learn about healthy foods, and how they work in the body, and how to read labels, if needed.

4. Also consider your meal schedules. Are they erratic ? Do you eat in a hurry at times. Change them by planning ahead .Replace a fast food lunch with a brown bag of healthy foods.

5. If necessary force yourself to say no to unhealthy foods. Peer pressure can be very high at parties such as baby showers, weddings, birthday parties, reunions, or when the boss or friends have ordered or supplied dinner. Again, say no. True friends, family, peers at work, and others you know will not mind you saying no to unhealthy foods. And remember that while stopping eating unhealthy foods, eat healthy foods.

6. Eating healthy in restaurants can be a challenge. But it can be done. Skip the drink section, and the appetizers for they are usually high fat foods. Desserts may have more calories than the rest of your meal, so avoid them. In other words check the menu carefully and select healthy foods. And don't forget portions. If needed get a doggie bag and take half of the food home to eat at another time.

7. While you are at your doctor ask him what would be a good exercise program for you considering your life style. He will give you one. And it may include upping your protein intake, especially in morning.

8. Home foods. It is possible that you ordinarily have in your home healthy foods. Most of the foods you now eat may be healthy. You may need to get rid of the unhealthy foods, then watch your portions, and avoid buying expensive heath foods. The diet your doctor will give you will likely have those foods in it.

Conclusions

A note about me. I have just had the blood work and x-rays done. I have no diet plan that I follow, nor an exercise program. You guessed it. My cholestrol is well down in the good range, my blood sugar is normal, my liver function is normal, and my lungs are clear. That may not be true for you, but a doctor visit is well worth the money before starting a diet and exercise program.

The big thing with dieting is a change in the mind. When convinced the mind will aid in following a diet.