5 Tips For Getting Back On Track With Your Nutrition

When we’re on any journey, setbacks are bound to happen. That's also true for our health. Slip-ups happen to everyone (me included!), but diets and all-or-nothing approaches to getting back on track are not sustainable. The goal is to create a healthy lifestyle, and way of eating, that works for the long-term. Over-indulgence happens, forgive yourself and move on! Let’s look at some helpful tips…

Focus on what you’re trying to eat more of (not less of): Instead of restricting certain foods and beverages, focus on incorporating more healthy choices into your day. This is a more positive approach, that usually leads to fewer cravings of "less desirable" foods. Aim to drink more water (at least 60oz) each day. Add fruits and/or veggies to every meal. Eat more whole foods, but allow yourself the occasional treat or processed snack and don't let it derail your day.
Change Up Your Routine: Over time, we all develop habits that prevent us from making progress. The same can be true with our eating habits and routines. How can you make it easier to choose healthy foods? If you’re overwhelmed in your kitchen, maybe it's time to get organized in the kitchen so you always know what ingredients you have on-hand. Experiment with eating your meals at different times or smaller meals throughout the day if you're a snacker. Get rid of the foods that derail your habits and try taking a walk around the block or making a cup of tea when you find yourself wanting to reach for the bag of chips. Protein and fats can help to keep the cravings away, too (think: hard-boiled eggs, whole grain toast and nut butter, apple & cheese).
Prioritize Physical Activity Every Day: “But wait, we’re talking about nutrition not fitness!” The two go very hand-in-hand, my friends. Most of us feel so much better when we incorporate physical activity into our day, and in turn feel more motivated to pick healthier foods. Exercise can brighten your mood, stave off depression, and increase energy - all of which make us less likely to gravitate to junk foods to fill a void!
Make Time To Meal Plan And Prep: Diets can work in the short-term, but are usually not sustainable. It's much better (and more satisfying!) to make lifestyle changes that can evolve with you. Success for a long-term healthy lifestyle is being mindful about your meals. Plan ahead, do meal-prep on a day or afternoon when you have an hour or two free. For some people, this could mean roasting veggies or making a big pot of oats that can be eaten throughout the week. For others, this might mean a meal subscription service a few days a week so no one has to think about what to cook. Adding good quality pre-made meals from delivery services, that fit your personal preferences and lifestyle, is a great option!
Build In Some Accountability: Accountability can help clarify your goals, identify areas for opportunity and reveal patterns. You will be more aware of what you're eating, and how it affects your health and well-being, and therefore more motivated to succeed when you see progress. Some ideas: Keep a food journal, take before and after stats/photos, ask a friend to be your accountability buddy and check in with him or her on how you're doing - you can motivate and inspire one another! Set incentives to help you stay motivated! New clothes? A weekend away? A day at the spa? You decide what works for your life!