This is a blog post by Bayswater personal training, Grant Lofthouse.
Good eating habits are the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. They not only contribute to maintaining an optimal weight but also promote overall well-being.
Developing these habits may seem challenging at first, but with commitment and consistency, they can become second nature.
In this post, we will explore three effective tips that we use with our Bayswater personal training clients to help you develop good eating habits and foster a healthier relationship with food.
1. Embrace a Balanced Diet:
One of the most crucial aspects of developing good eating habits is adopting a balanced diet. A balanced diet involves consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods from all food groups, including fruits, vegetables, carb, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Here’s how you can achieve it:
a) Fill your plate with color: Make it a point to incorporate a rainbow of fruits and vegetables into your meals. These vibrant foods are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your immune system and overall health.
b) Include lean proteins: Incorporate lean proteins like red meat, chicken, fish, beans, or legumes into your meals. Proteins are the building blocks of the body, essential for repairing tissues, maintaining muscle mass, and providing a sense of fullness.
c) Don’t forget healthy fats: Include sources of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil in your diet. These fats are crucial for brain function, hormone production, and maintaining healthy skin. Be careful with the amount of fat you consume as fat is higher in calories and very easy to over consume.
2. Practice Mindful Eating:
Developing good eating habits also involves practicing mindful eating. Mindful eating is the practice of paying full attention to the present moment while eating, including the sensations, flavors, and thoughts associated with food.
Here are some tips to incorporate mindful eating into your routine:
a) Slow down and savor each bite: Take the time to chew your food thoroughly and savor the flavors. Eating slowly allows your body to recognize signals of fullness, preventing overeating.
b) Eliminate distractions: Turn off the television, put away your phone, and create a calm environment while eating. By removing distractions, you can focus on your meal and tune into your body’s hunger and satiety cues.
c) Listen to your body: Learn to distinguish between physical hunger and emotional or boredom-based eating. Pause before reaching for a snack and ask yourself if you are genuinely hungry. If not, find alternative ways to address your emotions or engage in a non-food-related activity.
d) Portion control: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating. Use smaller plates and bowls, and be aware of recommended serving sizes for different food groups. Pay attention to your body’s signals of fullness and stop eating when you feel satisfied, rather than overly full.
3. Plan and Prepare Ahead:
To develop and maintain good eating habits, it’s essential to plan and prepare your meals ahead of time. By doing so, you can make healthier choices and avoid impulsive decisions that may lead to poor food choices.
Consider the following tips:
a) Create a weekly meal plan: Set aside some time each week to plan your meals and snacks. Consider your schedule, nutritional needs, and personal preferences. This practice will help you make healthier choices, save time, and reduce stress associated with mealtime decisions.
b) Grocery shop wisely: Make a shopping list based on your meal plan and stick to it. Prioritize whole foods and avoid purchasing unhealthy snacks or processed foods that may tempt you during moments of hunger or cravings.
Developing good eating habits is a journey that requires patience, commitment, and consistency. By embracing a balanced diet, practicing mindful eating, and planning and preparing your meals ahead of time, you can foster a healthier relationship with food and promote overall well-being.
Remember, small changes can have a significant impact over time, so start by implementing one tip at a time and gradually incorporate them into your daily routine.
Stay motivated, celebrate your successes, and be kind to yourself throughout the process. With time and perseverance, you’ll find that healthy eating habits become second nature, leading to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
P.S: Whenever you’re ready… here are 3 ways I can help you with your weight loss and fitness goals:
1. Grab a free copy of my new book, The Fat Loss Cheat Sheet
It’s an easy-to-read book revealing the 5 systems you need to turn your body into a fat burning machine. – Click Here
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It’s an interview with one of my clients, Emma, who spills the beans on how she lost 8 kilos in 6 weeks from following our formula. If you want some fitness motivation – Click Here
3. Claim Your 2 Week Try Out
Come train at our private personal training facility, Strength Squad, on the house for the next 2 weeks and see what the fuss is all about.
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