We live in a fast-paced busy world, and it’s all too easy to indulge in sugary snacks like chocolate in a bid to get a quick energy boost during the day. As the nights continue to draw in and the weather changes it’s also easier to cuddle up on the sofa with a packet of crisps than head out for that 30-minute walk, jog or cycle.
Bad Habits Can Be Changed
The good news is that these are just bad habits that can be changed with careful eating habits and a focus on mindfulness. Coupled with exercise, you’ll be able to maintain or continue to lose weight, feel fitter and have more energy throughout the day.
When preparing your meals, it’s good practice to be mindful of the size of portions and what food groups are on your plate. The trick is to include the right balance of protein, carbohydrates and vegetables each day.
Carbohydrates Are Not Bad
There is plenty of articles about low carbohydrate diets being better for you but in reality, you need carbohydrates to fuel your body. Not enough carbohydrates in your meals and you’ll start to feel tired and fatigued. Read more about carbohydrates here.
The Eatwell Guide
Using the Eatwell Guide that you can find on the NHS website, around a third of your plate should be fruit and vegetables remembering to eat at least 5 portions per day. A third of your plate should contain starchy food to provide you with energy. Choose higher fibre and wholegrain carbohydrates such as wholewheat pasta, brown rice and leave the skin on potatoes.
The last third contains dairy or dairy alternatives such as cheese, yoghurt and milk. Pulses, eggs, fish and meat make up the rest – remembering to choose lean cuts of meat and cutting down on red and processed meats.
You don’t have to stick to the guide every meal but try to balance it out across the day and week. When you do, you are providing different nutrients that help your body function and, by filling up your body with the foods it needs, you’ll get to be the best you and ready to take on the daily challenges that come with leading a busy life.