Monday, March 26, 2012

A Few More Healthy Eating Tips...

It seems like everyone around me is making strides to be healthier....and that makes me so happy!!  If you know me, then you know that living a healthy lifestyle and encouraging others to do so too is truly a passion of mine. I could talk about it ALL DAY LONG!!! And really, I love answering questions and helping people, so feel free to e-mail me or ask any questions. I'm not an expert, but I defiintely do a lot of research and know a good bit about nutrition and fitness.
Not only am I happier, I also feel better about myself and have TONS more energy since I started focusing on my health. Even more than all of that though (which is super important), I feel like I am helping give myself a better quality of life for the future. I want to take care of myself NOW so I can be a healthy, wild old lady! :) Ha! And of course I want to set a good example for my future kiddos. We are ALL responsbile for our own health and teaching our children to make healthy choices.

I've said it before, but part of the reason I initially became interested in taking care of myself is because I am adopted and don't know much about my family health history (other than the fact that heart disease is extremely prevalent). I know that I owe it to myself and others around me to take care of my body and make my health a priority. And an added bonus to that....I wanna look goooood for my husband! I love that he thinks I'm smokin' hot, and I'd like to keep it that way! What? Just bein' honest! (He tells me that every day. It never gets old to hear it.)
Anyway, I have read more and more research about the harmful effects of sugar and junk food on your health and the aging process. Did you know refuned sugar actually leads to wrinkles? There is a more scientific explanation, but it's been found to be true through extensive research.

I believe in clean eating (MOST of the time!) and I am always learning and trying new things. Here are a few things I am doing now (and LOVING!!)to eat healthier. Just had to share with ya!

**Salsa!!! Salsa is an "unlimited" food because it is SO good for you. I eat it on ALL my grilled meat now as opposed to other condiments that aren't so hot for you (bbq sauce, honey mustard, ketchup, etc.). I LOVE it! It adds the pefect flavor and life to grilled chicken, fish, and my new fave....canned tuna!
**Lean protein! How do I prepare my meat?? I get asked this question a LOT. I eat grilled chicken, fish (salmon/tilapia), or shrimp every single night. I like these choices because they are great choices for lean protein, and the fish is filled with essential omegas and good fats we need. I make it on the stove in olive oil and add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, and crushed pepper. Very simple, no salt, and adds the PERFECT flavor.
**HEALTHY snacks only! I keep our house stocked with healthy snacks so they're readily available. Preparation is key...becasue we live in a "convenence" society. I plan so that I cannot use this as an excuse. Oh, and I don't keep junk in the house. Too tempting. One of my faves is spinach. Spinach is SO good for you, so it's my #1 go-to snack. (My favorite dressing is Kraft's Ceasar Vinaigrette with Parmesan.) I also go for boiled egg whites (low in calories, high in protein), or a handful or raw almonds or walnuts. Super filling.
**I don't eat fruit after 3 pm. And if I do eat it, I try to do it after a workout.  Fruit is healthy, yes. But if you don't burn off the natural sugar in it, it turns to glucose and is stored as fat. You have to be careful with "too much" fruit, and definitely stick to eating it in it's fresh, raw form.
** Find a healthy alternative to a treat you LOVE. My new thing is making "icecream" out of my protein. 1 scoop of whey protein powder, water, ice, and a tablespoon of natural peanut butter in the blender. It's delicious!! And while it's not ice cream, I feel like I'm getting a treat. It's WAYYYY healthier too.
**Shop at at Aldi or an Asian supermarket. I've heard several people say they can't afford to eat healthy...but I guarantee my grovecy bill from Aldi is lower than people who buy unhealthy food at another supermarket chain.
**Hang in there. I promise, it's only hard for a little while. Eventually it becomes habit and a new lifestyle, and you can choose the healthier options without even thinking.  I don't even hesitate anymore...I know when I go out to eat I am going to get a grilled chicken salad. And I LOVE it. I am to the point now where that's the most appetizing thing on the menu, and the thought of a hamburger or steak or whatever seriously grosses me out.  It's all about changing your mindset. Don't think of it as a diet, and don't completely restrict yourself from something. Splurge when it's WORTH it; just don't let it become a daily thing or get out of hand.

Hope ya learned something!!

3 comments:

Micah said...

I need to try that "ice cream" recipe. Sounds perfect.

I was unaware of that fact about fruits. I'm definitely going to be more aware of eating fruits after a certain time.

As the daughter of a diabetic, I am trying to focus more on my health -- watching carbs/sugars and being more active. I'm not perfect, by any means, but I feel like I've done a lot to hopefully prevent going through the things my dad has with his diabetes.

J and A said...

Loved this post. Great advice. I am loving tuna right now too. I love your ice cream idea. I LOVE ice cream! Happy Monday!!

Mrs. Pancakes said...

you always have great advice..that's probably the nicest Aldi's i have ever seen!