Adjusting your food intake to emphasize a balanced diet does not have to involve buying lots of exotic "health foods" or forcing yourself to eat foods you hate. Here are some small adjustments to your routine that can make a big difference in your health:

Stop buying "junk food." Processed "quick meals" and snacks tend to be big on carbohydrates and fats and short on vitamins and minerals. Stick to a shopping list that emphasizes lean meats, fruits and vegetables, and you cannot go too far wrong even when you feel compelled to snack. (You cannot overindulge on chips at home if you do not have them!) Keep these healthy snacks in strategic locations to help you avoid the temptation of nearby vending machines.

Add color to your menu. Brightly-colored fruits and vegetables contain several important vitamins and minerals, and their antioxidants can help your cells resist premature aging. The fact that they also taste great makes it easy to give them a prominent place on your plate.

Re-think your meat consumption. Yes, lean meats can be a healthy part of a balanced diet, but you can also get complete proteins from non-meat, low-fat, high-fiber combinations such as beans and rice. 

Watch what you drink. Most alcoholic beverages contain lots of empty calories, and excessive drinking may be bad for your waistline, insulin levels and liver. Drink generous amounts of water instead; your body needs it to function correctly.

Need Help Reducing Those Carbohydrates and Fats?

While we hope you will find these tips an easy way to optimize your nutrition and improve your overall wellness, we understand that a lifestyle adjustment can prove difficult. That is why our team at Secrest Family Chiropractic offers nutritional counseling and advice to help you make the right changes, large or small, and remain committed to your goal of better health. Contact us to learn more!

Do you find that staying hydrated helps you avoid snacking or overeating? Share your experiences with us!