6 Rules of Good Nutrition

Again I can not take credit for the tips below.  They came to me in one of the subscription emails I receive but I think they are simple tips that if you REALLY make the point to follow, could make a big difference in your life.

6. Never Skip Breakfast - I am guilty of skipping breakfast or eating breakfast so late it really can't be considered breakfast.  However, I have been trying to make a point to eat something within an hour of waking lately and I think it is helping.  I feel better, more energized and I am hoping it is helping my metabolism!

5. Snack With Purpose - I find that if I plan out my snacks for the day I do much better.  Sometimes I do go for my chips and pop - that I love! But I try to limit that to twice a week and choose better options all the other days.  Here are a few of my favorites - trail mix, popcorn, carrots, celery/dip, yogurt, wheat thins/string cheese.

4. Beware of Portion Distortion -  I started using the kids plates that are divided for my lunch/dinner to help control portion size. The plates are still plenty big and it makes me think about how much I am putting on my plate as well as filling the different spots with more fruits and veggies.

3. Drink Responsibly -This one I do fairly good at - I drink water all day long and on most days I don't have any pop.  I do have coffee in the morning though.  So for the most part, I am not drinking my calories.  Well, at least not during the week.  When we do go out on a weekend and have a few cocktails the calories add up fast!  Recent studies have shown that even diet pop and the mixes that go into your water aren't that good for you either because they make you crave something sugary.  So you end up eating something not so good with your drink.  I am guilty of that.  If we don't have pop in the house, I won't have chips.

 2. Eat More Whole Foods and Fewer Science Experiments - A friend of mine was explaining to her daughter the difference between what foods are good for you and what aren't.  She stated it very simple - If you can tell me where the food came from and how it was made or grown, it is probably good for you.  I thought this was a great way to explain it and it is very true.  It isn't always easy or convenient to eat whole foods though so I like the 80/20 rule.  80% of the time I try to eat and drink well and 20% of the time I indulge a little.

1. Set the Table - I find that setting the table or at least making my plate and sitting down at the table really cuts down on how much I eat.  However, I find it really difficult to do.  It seems to be easier to just stand because someone always needs something, is getting up, spills something, etc. Setting the table also helps with family bonding.  We often go around the table and talk about what we liked about the day, etc. 

I hope these tips help you to reach your wellness goals.  I know that just talking and writing about them reminded me that these 6 simple things could help our whole family live a healthier life.