However, like most people, I tend to gravitate toward the not-so-good-for-you but oh-so-delicious things on a menu or in my cookbook. French fries? Yes please. A really good steak? I'm hungry already. Creme brûlée? My favorite.
I've been able to hide these unhealthy choices thanks to a fast metabolism (woo, youth!) and a small appetite, but I have never quite been able to make up for their lack of nutritional value. Repeat after me: not all calories are created equal. I used to believe that by eating small portions of unhealthy foods, I would always look good, and therefore feel good. Wrong. The same number of calories does not mean the calories have equivalent value.
I have struggled with a weak immune system, an upset stomach, occasionally dull skin and blood sugar spikes more and more in the last couple of years. After dealing with one too many illnesses a few weeks ago, I realized I needed to make a change that would have me feeling good now and even more importantly, later.
I've committed to a few small health goals so that I can continue to enjoy some of my favorite things (#cremebruleeforever) while getting the nutrients I need to live a long healthy life.
1. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I have no idea where I got the crazy idea that breakfast was somehow optional. It's not. Eating an apple or a bowl of oatmeal in the morning wakes my brain up even more than a cup of coffee. Plus, I have a much more stable appetite throughout the day if I eat something light within an hour of waking up.
2. Diet soda is bad for you. I have finally (**hopefully forever**) kicked my diet coke habit. I love that stuff. I have a huge sweet tooth so in an effort to not eat dessert, I would often drink a can of soda after a meal. However, the artificial sweeteners are so bad for the body, as is sugar in general. Other than one coffee in the morning, I only drink water. And to satisfy my sweet tooth? A cup of fruit will do just fine.
3. You can have it all. I am actively opposed to dieting. Despite having pretty strong willpower, I have never been into deprivation. I try to make 70-80% of what I eat nutritious and 20-30% delicious (not that those are mutually exclusive). This evens out to about a side of fries or a small dessert. Knowing that I can feel great and indulge in my favorite things encourages me to keep up these changes!
4. Veggies are so in right now. It seems like everyone and their mother is on some kind of plant-based (read: vegan) diet. This would be totally unsustainable for me (if it isn't for you, respect) but I have been trying to really up my vegetable intake. I've been obsessed with cooking brussels sprouts lately as well as broccoli, spinach and other kinds of green veggies. Added into a spicy stir fry or served with pasta, veggies have helped me maintain better energy levels all day.
5. Make healthy swaps. This has probably been the easiest change for me. It is so easy to tweak a recipe or something on a menu in order to make things a little more nutritionally-rich. For example, ordering whole wheat pasta instead of white flour pasta is a great way to get a bit of extra fiber in your diet so you stay fuller longer. Instead of my beloved Reeses cups (ugh why are these so good), I opt for a banana or apple with peanut butter. While the number of calories are most likely similar, the nutritional value could not be more different. I feel so much better afterward!
What are your tips for healthy living?
xoxo
Ashley
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