After a season of holiday goodies, rich dinners and lots of party foods, it’s definitely time for some healthier eating! But don’t worry, eating healthy doesn’t have to mean losing out on taste – we’ve got some great tips to keep you feeling healthy and fresh from the inside out!
There are a few simple guidelines to apply to your diet while you’re working on implementing healthier eating habits. Sticking to these will make it easier to feel good inside and out, without feeling like you’re depriving yourself of the foods you love.
Eat more veggies
Upping your veggie intake can add tons of flavour, nutrition and freshness to your daily diet. As soon as you cook vegetables they start to lose some of their nutritional content, which is why it’s important to make sure that they are never overcooked. Now, steaming veggies is easier than ever with Ziploc® brand Zip ‘n Steam™ bags. When increasing your vegetable intake try to balance the amount of cooked veggies with fresh veggies in the form of salads.
Another great way to make sure you’re getting your veggies is to make a batch of veggie soup that can last for a couple of days as dinner and then lunch leftovers. Start with a simple vegetable or chicken broth and throw in as many veggies as you can. Add some beans, wholegrain pasta and your favourite seasoning for more of a flavour infusion.
Check out this month’s feature recipe for another tasty way to incorporate Ziploc® brand Zip ‘n Steam™ bags into your kitchen!
Think Seasonal.
Ever wonder why there are still so many exotic fruits in your grocery store even though it’s the middle of winter? When implementing a new eating plan, it’s a good idea to try to keep your diet to fruits and vegetables that are in season. Winter squashes, apples, cranberries are all examples of seasonally appropriate foods.
Say goodbye to white flour.
Processed foods that are high in white flour and sugar are not the best food choices when thinking healthy. Don’t banish all carbohydrates from your life but try to go for the wholewheat variety when you’re choosing breads or pitas or even pastas.
Wholegrains, whole heart.
Adding some high fibre, high protein grains to your diet will add a serious nutritional boost to your winter menu. Wholegrains are also part of a heart-healthy diet, so feel free to stock up on your favourite products in their wholegrain variety. Try some Quinoa, a tasty ancient grain that is incredibly high in protein. It makes a great side dish for any meal and you can season it similarly to risotto. When a recipe calls for white rice, incorporate some fibre by making the switch to brown rice. Higher in protein and fibre than it’s paler cousin, brown rice adds a nutty flavour to your favourite recipes. Another good grain to try is bulgur, a distant relation to cracked wheat, and an excellent winter warmer.
Remember that incorporating healthy eating habits does not have to be torture. Allow yourself a few treats when you’re really craving them. As long as you stick to these guidelines and use your own healthy judgment, you’ll be feeling and looking as fresh as the new year in no time!
