If you are like me, you probably get caught in some unhealthy eating patterns over the winter months. When it is cold outside, I want comfort from my food I admit it. So I reach for the carbs, let myself enjoy chocolate, and sadly my favourite, salt and vinegar chips. My other indulgence, (I'm not going to lie) is wine. This is a big treat for me, and over the winter months I enjoyed my fair share of it.
While I'm in the moment I'm getting that rush of comfort, and I'm telling myself, I deserve a treat (or two, or three). Sound familiar? Please tell me I'm not the only one!! Then I wake up on Monday morning and tell myself this week I'm going to eat clean and NO WINE! (Okay, less wine.)
Sometimes it works, and other times, I succumb to my need to relax after a stressful day!
That being said, I took a hard look at my diet and made a list of all the things I know how to do. So rather than feeling like I'm depriving myself, I'm going to challenge myself for the next 14 days to eat healthy. Here's what I'm going to do!
Each of these little habits has an impact on your overall health. When you combine all these habits you are not going to believe how amazing you will feel.
Intermittent fasting is a great way to cleanse your digestive system.
Drinking 2 cups of water right when you get up, and every hour during the day helps reduce hunger.
Six small meals will balance blood sugar levels, while maintaining energy consistent and speed up metabolism.
Berries are high in antioxidants and have full of flavour, so helps with sweet cravings.
Herbal tea, like peppermint, green and chamomile a great for digestion and reduce muscle fatigue. Plus no calories!
Sugar has been linked to many inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. Less sugar, less inflammation.
Processed foods are empty calories, often loaded with sugar, and fat that the body doesn't need.
Going meatless can give your digestive track a break, add lentils for more protein.
Herbs and spices add flavour to food and are good alternates for salt and sugar.
Complex carbohydrates such as sweet potato, or brown rice are high in fiber and digest slower, so you are full for longer.
Most of us need additional magnesium and zinc in our diets. It helps with recovery after workout and help with sleep.
Planning meals will support a balanced diet of good food and help avoid eating fast foods!
Listen to your body, and get support when choosing to eat healthier!
So who is with me? April is quickly approaching and if you are feeling lethargic, bloated, fatigued and irritable, it could be time to look at your diet and make some adjustments. Little changes can make a BIG difference!
Stay tuned for my results from the 14 Day Healthy Eating Challenge! If you are doing this with me, let me know! While I'm coaching myself, I can coach you through this too!
Here's to a successful 14 days of healthy eating habit building!