In honor of the new year, we’ve been talking about all things new. Earlier this month we talked about how a new year is a perfect time to launch new goals. If you follow the trend of many Americans, chances are at least one of your goals or resolutions was connected to your health.
Unfortunately, studies show only 8% of people actually keep their statistics. That statistic can be quite disheartening, but there are some things you can do keep your plate happy and your motivation going all year.
Be open to trying new foods. My 10-year-old son is suspicious of any food that doesn’t resemble pizza or a cheeseburger. But, he has discovered many foods he likes (even cauliflower!) by what we have called the “no-thank-you-bite”. He has to try one bite of a new food before automatically dismissing it. I’ll admit, there are times when I have to institute the no-thank-you-bite rule for myself. More times than not, I really like what I try. Trying new foods can be exciting and opens up the door to healthier options.
Eat the rainbow. And no, I don’t mean Trix. Fruits and veggies aren’t just vibrant in color, they’re also nutrient-rich. Filled with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, these are great side dishes to something as simple as baked chicken. Isn’t a brightly colored plate more inviting?
Take a food challenge. The Whole30 eating plan is widely popular, and I’ve had several friends who have successfully tried it. Grouping up with friends to try a new eating plan, whether it’s the Whole30, paleo or another healthy option is a great way to stick with your healthy eating goals.
Try food math. Math was never my favorite subject, but I definitely know how to add and subtract. Choosing to add or subtract things in your diet is another way to make a healthy choice for the new year. Add more fruits and vegetables. Subtract some of those carbs. (I didn’t say all the carbs!) Add nut butters. Subtract processed foods. You get the gist. A little adding here and a little subtracting there can make a big difference!
Consult a book. A cookbook, that is. Whether it’s Pinterest or an actual hardback book, buying a new healthy-eating cookbook can definitely motivate you to make better food choices. Many well-known chefs and food bloggers have fantastic cookbooks. Do a little online research with a handful of your favorites and invest a few dollars into one of their books. You’ll get the chance to try new foods and discover healthy dishes. Some of my favorite food blogs are Womanista Wellness, Mix and Match Mama and Skinnytaste.
To help you get a jumpstart on making healthy choices, I’m giving away one copy of one of my favorite cookbooks, Brooke Griffin’s Skinny Suppers. Brooke is the founder of Skinnymom (now Womanista Wellness) and knows what it takes to put together flavorful meals that the whole family will love. Her recipes are simple to prepare, kid-approved and just downright delicious.
You can enter to win the cookbook any of these ways below. You’ll get one entry for each way you engage. The winner will be picked on January 31.
– Comment on this post with either your favorite heathy dish or activity
– Like my new Facebook page
– Share this post via your favorite social media outlet
– Sign up for my newsletter with the form below (no spam, only good words!)
However you choose to make a happy plate, you can do it!
“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13