We’re nearing the end of January, which means: a lot of us are freezing, you are either crushing your New Year resolutions, ready to give up on them or you are still searching for some. Am I right? I’m all for goals, reflection, self-improvement and powerful start dates but I’ve been practicing nutrition long enough to say with confidence that you should let go of extreme goals. They are harsh, exhausting and often short-lived. We, my friends, can only sprint for so long. I’m here to share with you some of my favorite health and nutrition goal. They are attainable, realistic and some might say easy. Let’s go for empowerment this year and set our selves up for long-term success!
- Water, water and yes, it’s boring but water: This is not new news but I still find myself talking about it ALL. THE. TIME. People, it’s time to buy a fancy new water bottle and get guzzling. Water keeps you hydrated, maintains energy levels and prevents headaches, lethargy and lackluster skin. Not motivated yet? It also helps to increase metabolism and may assist with weight loss.
- Fill half your plate with veggies at every meal: Veggies at breakfast? I know it sounds weird but it isn’t hard. Throw spinach in your eggs, order a side salad not home fries with your omelet, put lettuce and tomato on your bagel, make sweet potato toast or toss kale into your smoothie. At lunch a salad or cooked veggies will do and for dinner how about some cauliflower pizza. It isn’t hard but it does take planning.
- Start using your freezer: Yes the freezer is the new pantry. Fill it up with frozen fruits and veggies, frozen shrimp, veggie burgers or even Daily Harvest. Frozen foods last a lot longer than fresh, retain more nutrients and provide fast meals on lazy nights even if you haven’t gone food shopping. A full freezer will leave you with fewer excuses to order in. Your wallet and waistline with thank me.
- Quit drinking….at home: No you don’t have to feel like a failure if you haven’t committed to a dry January! But, if drinking less is a goal of yours then let’s start by not drinking at home. Believe me, I know that bottle of wine in your PJs on a cold, cozy Tuesday sounds great but it isn’t a must. Instead, have some tea or seltzer and enjoy those cocktails when you are out instead.
- Get cooking: Nope you don’t have to be good at it, you just have to start. From Instant Pot to eggs and yes, even pasta, making it at home is waaaaaay healthier than ordering in or going out. It might not be the easiest or best meal of your life but you won’t go hungry and with the help of certain seasonings (hello “Everything But The Bagel” from TJ’s) even chicken breast taste elevated.
This year, I welcome you to slow your roll and to be a little gentler with yourself and your body. No these goals aren’t trending or extreme but they have withstood the test of time and each one has been shown to help you live a healthier life. Get these under your belt and you are more than halfway there!