top 10 tips for a healthier new year
If your New Year’s resolutions is to be healthier, Sarah Caron of Sarah's Cucina Bella can help! Here are 10 fantastic ways to kick off the season with sensible eating.
Sarah’s Guide to Portion Sizes
1. Use a kitchen scale
Portion sizes have gotten larger over the years, making it harder to decide what’s appropriate. No, eyeballing isn’t a good solution. It may be a good idea to weigh it or measure it before you eat it. A scale can help ensure that you keep portions the right size, every time.
2. Make salad a habit
Lettuce and many other veggies are lower in calories. They’re also filling alongside a 3 or 4-ounce portion of protein and a small roll or slice of bread made with whole grain.
3. “Treat” yourself—wisely
Bacon bits, croutons and cheese, oh my! These tasty toppings can make a salad special, but can also add a significant amount of calories and fat. Instead of indulging all at once, choose only one and use it sparingly.
4. Try smart swapping
Butter and sour cream on your baked potato add calories, but salsa and a tablespoon of shredded cheddar or fat free plain Greek yogurt are much smarter choices that add great flavor. Another smart trade? Sweet potatoes instead of white to get plenty of vitamin A.
5. Choose lean proteins
Lean proteins, such as chicken breast and baked or grilled fish, are way more waist-friendly than a well-marbled steak (I’ll be the first to admit the steak does taste great!) Take a cue from the Mediterranean-style of eating…limit red meat and opt for leaner protein and meatless options more often.
6. Go whole grain!
It’s a simple thing to choose whole grain breads, and whole wheat pasta over the regular alternative. Do it—the whole grains offer plenty of benefits beyond fiber.
7. Don’t skip breakfast
Your mama probably told you this, but it’s really something to listen to—eating breakfast jumpstarts your body. So, eat something healthy!
8. Choose “good” fat
Avocado and olive oil? Good fats. Omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish? Good fat. Choose fats that are good for your body over saturated or trans fats.
9. Don’t always say no
You know that feeling when you really, really want something? Instead of trying to ignore it and consequently overeating, say yes—and have it in moderation. In the end, you may be more satisfied and be more likely to stick to your healthy eating goals.
10. Exercise!
It’s not enough just to eat right. Exercise. Experts recommend getting at least 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.