Simple Tips for Eating Healthier Without Dieting

Eating healthier — you know you should do it, but are you really clear on what it means? There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding the concept of healthy eating. Plus, it might seem like new — and often contradictory — information becomes available every other day. So, who should you believe, and what should you do?

The truth is, the basics of good nutrition are well established and stand the test of time. Here are some healthy eating strategies that are easy to follow and could potentially change your life:

• Always eat breakfast — You’ve heard it before, and it’s true: breakfast is the most important meal of the day. The best choice is a combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. A good breakfast can kickstart your metabolism, improve your cognitive function, and set the stage to help you make healthy food choices throughout the rest of the day.
• Watch out for processed foods —While not all pre-made foods are poor choices, you should read labels carefully and take a pass on any boxed meals that are full of sugar, sodium, unhealthy fats, or preservatives.
• Limit your sodium and sugar intake — Putting away your salt shaker and sugar bowl is definitely a good place to start. But, the majority of salt and sugar in your diet likely comes from other sources, such as packaged foods, which include soups, pasta sauces, rice mixes, and breakfast cereals. Again, always read food labels carefully.
• Imagine that your dinner plate is divided into quarters — Fill one half with crunchy vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, Brussels sprouts, and leafy greens like kale. Then, place some whole grains or legumes in one of the remaining quarters, and a serving of healthy, lean protein in the other.
• Don’t focus on calories alone — Calories are important, but not all are created equal. Instead of choosing low-calorie foods that are high in sugar or unhealthy fats, look for their nutrient-dense counterparts that are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• Never starve yourself — When you focus your efforts on skimping on food all day, you’ll be more likely to overindulge at night.

Perhaps the most important piece of advice is to simply enjoy your food. Healthy eating is not about depriving yourself. Instead, the key is finding nutritious foods that you genuinely like to eat.

If you have questions about general nutrition or overall wellness, please contact or visit South Tampa Immediate Care. Our walk-in clinic is conveniently located on South Howard Avenue in Tampa, FL, and we do not require appointments.