There are many things about the American diet that are bad. If you eat out a lot you are probably eating far bigger portions than you need to be, and far more calories. Too many fried foods, too much sugar, and too many foods with empty calories fill most people’s diets.
If you want to love longer and have a healthier brain and heart, you may want to make some changes to your diet. It’s never too late to start eating healthy and paying more attention to the foods that you consume.
Add More Beans And Lentils
For most people, meat is a healthy meal choice. However, there are some meats that are better than others. White meats are generally considered the healthier choices, and include chicken and turkey.
Things like ham and bacon contain too much salt, while red meats can clog your arteries and stick around in your stomach longer than they need to. If you are a big red meat fan, the healthiest choice is venison. Any wild meat is far more nutrient rich than store bought, farm raised meats.
Add More Fruits And Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are probably your healthiest options when it comes to foods. If you fill most of your plate with vegetables you don’t have to spend as much time worrying about counting calories and you will know you are getting the vitamins and nutrients your body needs.
Make sure that you eat a variety. Don’t just eat a salad with some tomatoes every day. Try adding celery, broccoli, and other veggies. Fruit even make a great addition to a tasty salad, and you can get a little protein with nuts and seeds instead of meat.
Cut Back On Fatty Foods
If you are a meat eater, pick cuts that are lean. Pass on the fried and greasy foods and opt for freshly grilled items. The only fats you want to get are healthy ones, like those found in healthy oils and avocados.
Make Wiser Snack Choices
If you need a snack, skip the doughnuts and cookies and eat some fresh fruits. If you have a sweet tooth, fruits are the best fix. If you want something crunchy and salty, go for some air-popped popcorn.
Fresh veggies are great crunchy snacks too, and combined with things like hummus and peanut butter they help you get protein and energy.
Opt For Whole Foods Instead
There are plenty of whole food options out there, from beans to grains. Buy whole grains for their more complete health benefits. Purchase beans to make healthy soups and to mill up to make your own homemade flour.
Buy fresh any chance you get, and you’ll be happier and healthier in no time.