I know so many people who want to lose weight, eat better, and feel better but they have a hard time breaking bad habits. One of the big things to do is to stock your pantry with high quality foods. That way when it’s time to cook you have good things to choose from and you’re not tempted to go with the quick but unhealthy meal or snack. Here are few tips to set yourself up for success.
Buy whole grains.
Unless you are dead-set against eating carbs, grains are likely to be in your diet. When you buy them get brown rice instead of white, try quinoa and if you cannot live without pasta, go for whole wheat or brown rice.
Get food you like.
An all too common mistake people make is getting foods that you don’t like just because you think they’re good for you. While they may have desirable nutrients it won’t do you much good sitting in your pantry. Get things that you’ll enjoy eating and will also nourish your body.
Don’t forget the snacks.
There are sometimes when you just need something to munch on. Make sure that when those times come around you have good options. Get yourself some nuts, pumpkin seeds or sprouted grain chips. Next time you need a snack you’ll have something you don’t feel bad about afterwards.
Move your junk food out of view.
Believe it or not, where you put food away matters. When you’re trying to figure out what to have for dinner and you open the cabinet to see what you have you’re more likely to use something if you see it. Similarly if the first thing you see when you open the cabinet is cookies, it’s way too easy to have a cookie. Move those cookies to the top shelf, put the nuts at eye level, and hide the sugary cereal behind the steel cut oats.
If you’re someone who likes to cook and eat at home this may seem like second nature. If you tend to go out but want to make changes it’s a little harder. Get things that cook quickly like quinoa and always plan ahead. Know what you want to make and get everything you need for it. Then, of course, enjoy!
