The diet industry is a huge business in the United States, so it's not shocking that each year, more than 100 million people make a resolution to lose weight. Unfortunately, it's estimated that 80 to 85 percent of those people gain back any weight they lost within the first two years.
While exercising is a major component in the battle to shed pounds, your eating habits are an integral part of losing weight. Eating healthy can be daunting if you're unsure what will work best for you or if you embark on a highly restrictive diet plan, only to quit after a few weeks or months.
While you should always check with your doctor before making any changes in your diet or exercise routine, here are a few ways to modify your eating habits through lifestyle changes (without the restrictive rules that some diets apply):
Whole Grains: Substitute a whole grain product for a refined product. For instance, replace white bread with a whole grain variety, or opt for brown rice instead of white.
Vegetables: Eat a wide variety of vegetables - the more color and variety equals more nutrients! If you aren't a vegetable fan, incorporate them slowly by including them within other dishes like turkey meatloaf, casseroles, breads, stews and soups.
Fruits: Replace other sweets with fresh fruit. Instead of hitting the candy jar, enjoy fresh berries, grapes or an apple. Also try more exotic fruits like pomegranates, mangoes and papaya.
Meat/Seafood: Opt for lean poultry or seafood and broil, grill or roast them instead of frying. When eating red meat, select the leanest cuts, including top loin, top sirloin and round steaks.
Finally, don't forget to read labels and monitor portions. It's easy to overindulge in items, even when they're considered healthy.
Making small changes in your daily routine will help them stick, allowing you to reach your health goals!
