Self-care is vitally important. When we don’t pay close attention to what we put into our bodies, it’s easy to fall off track and get stuck in unhealthy habits. Committing to a lifestyle of healthy eating takes time and effort, so here are 8 quick tips to help you.

1. Don’t Go Grocery Shopping Hungry

Before you go grocery shopping, eat something nutritious and drink a big glass of water. This will will fill you up so you won't have to fight that gnawing feeling in your stomach, and you’ll be less likely to grab munchies from the shelf. As the saying goes, "Your eyes will be bigger than your belly'' if you are motivated by hunger pangs.

2. Make A Diverse Grocery List

When creating your shopping list, select a variety of healthy meals and snacks. Stock your refrigerator with nutritious foods such as vegetables and proteins that can either be combined to make an elaborate meal, heated up as leftovers or grabbed as a snack on your way out the door.

3. Pack Healthy Snacks

Skip the candy drawer or vending machine, and instead, opt for fruits, unsalted nuts, vegetables, Greek yogurt, low-fat cheese, and whole grain crackers, instead of high-sugar, or processed snacks to take to work with you. If you know you have something nearby to tide you over, you won’t have a reason to waste a dollar on a salty bag of chips or a sugary candy bar.

4. Read labels

Many manufacturers will try and fool customers by using labels such as “organic,” “gluten-free,” or “natural.” Unfortunately, these descriptions don’t typically mean these foods are good for you. Learn what the nutrition labels mean and especially keep an on these items:

• Total Added Sugars

An average-sized bar of milk chocolate contains about 25 grams of sugar, which is way over the recommended daily limit. If your meal replacement bar does also, it might be time to consider healthier on-the-go options.

• Synonyms For Sugar

Manufacturers also like to hide their sugar content by using different names for sugar on their ingredients list, usually ending in “-ose.” For example, sucrose, dextrose, fructose, glucose and sucralose. To cut it simple, “sugar-free” doesn’t always mean free of sugar.

• Carbohydrates

Be very cautious of prepared carbohydrates like cereals and meal bars. They tend to have very few vitamins and minerals and are packed with sugar. The ratio of high sugar and low protein also means you’ll be hungry again soon.

• Total number of ingredients

A good rule of thumb is that food items with fewer ingredients tend of have fewer preservatives and be more wholesome.

• The Bottom Line When It Comes To Food Labels

Always be cautious and skeptical about packaging claims on food items. Draw your own conclusions based on what you confirm to be true after evaluating the nutrition facts and ingredients.

Reading food labels can help you make informed choices about what you eat.

5. Cook At Home More Often

Cooking at home gives you more control over the ingredients you use. Create a plan for the week and shop ahead of time for all the ingredients you need. This will help you avoid impulsive buying and make it easier to cook healthy meals.

Look for healthy recipes online or in cookbooks. There are many resources available to help you find healthy meals that you will enjoy. Get creative.Try new vegetables, fruits, and grains that you haven't had before in your meals.

Studies show that people eating more home cooked meals have improved diet quality, lower body fat levels, greater fruit and vegetable intake and higher vitamin C levels.

6. Increase Calcium and Vitamin D

To increase calcium and vitamin D intake, look for foods that are fortified with calcium and vitamin D. Calcium and vitamin D work together to promote optimal bone health. While very few foods naturally contain vitamin D, several foods and beverages are fortified with this essential nutrient.

Milk, rice, soy beverages, yogurt, cheese, orange juice, cereal grains, dairy products, spinach, and canned fish are all good sources of Vitamin D And Calcium .

7. Food sensitivities

If you are experiencing digestive distress or persistent skin issues, it might be time to change your diet, consult a healthcare professional to explore potential food allergies or intolerances, or discuss the possibility of a gut-skin connection with your doctor as these factors can often be linked, and addressing dietary changes could potentially alleviate both symptoms.

Many people have a food intolerance or sensitivity in which they are unaware, and discovering this can help lead to healthier digestion, healthier skin and even lift your mood!

8. Drink Smoothies

There are 5 food groups that keep us healthy and they are: fruits, grains, dairy, vegetables, and proteins. The good news is, there are various ways to incorporate these foods into your diet.

One way is by making smoothies a daily routine. Smoothies have become increasingly popular in recent years because they are quick, versatile, nutritious, and delicious.

Smoothies are thick, creamy beverages that are usually blended with fruit, vegetables, juices, Greek yogurt, nuts, oats, seeds, or milk. They can easily be modified for taste and diverse preferences.

Smoothies can be a valuable addition to a healthy diet. Smoothies are a great option if you are on the go, and a creative way to boost your fruit and vegetable intake. They are also a healthy snack and even a meal replacement option and can contribute to healthy weight management.

Here are some delicious and nutritious Smoothie Recipes that help you on your way to healthy eating and better living.

Conclusion:

At the end of the day, turn cooking and eating into a fun experience, not hard work. Don’t purchase or cook anything you know you won’t enjoy just because it’s healthy. Take joy in your food, in your body, and in the pleasure of leading a healthy lifestyle!