There are hundreds of nutrition tips that I can share with you, but the two most valuable ones that will make the biggest difference in your waistline and health are 1) drink plenty of water and 2) eat lots of vegetables. This may seem oversimplified, but it really is that basic.
Drink a minimum of 64 ounces of water each day.
That’s 32 fl. oz. between breakfast and lunch and 32 fl. oz. between lunch and dinner. Drinking sufficient amounts of water can eliminate cravings for juice, soda, and other high sugar, calorie-rich beverages. Being well hydrated also helps curb hunger, stabilize energy, and flush out toxins. The easiest way to get in your 64 ounces is to fill up your water bottle (I use a 32 fl. oz. Nalgene) first thing in the morning and then again after lunch. If you get bored with plain water you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon (also supports detoxification), crushed mint, sliced cucumber, or mix it up with an occasional glass of sparkly water. Staying well hydrated throughout the day helps with weight loss by displacing calorie-dense beverages and helping to control your appetite.
Eat at least 3 servings of vegetables every day.
Vegetables are nutrient dense, low-calorie, low-sugar, high-fiber, and jam packed with antioxidants (anti-aging). How many other foods can boast this way? The high fiber content of vegetables fills you up, displacing other calorie dense, nutrient deficient foods. In other words, the more veggies you eat the less “other stuff” you’ll eat. Fiber also keeps you satisfied longer after a meal and has well known cleansing benefits. Antioxidants and phytonutrients in vegetables keep the body healthy and prevent age-related degenerative diseases.
There are many easy ways to cook vegetables including sauteing, roasting, grilling, and steaming. Allot 50% of your dinner plate for vegetables. Also, before you leave the house in the morning, pack a container of raw, chopped veggies to snack on throughout the day.
Next time you are at the grocery store go wild in the produce section. Approach the arugula, bow to the broccoli, caress the carrots, and sweet talk the spinach. Let the mood take you and try a few new things. Just don’t forget to bring your water bottle!
