How to start a healthier lifestyle
1. EAT AT LEAST 5 A DAY
- Add them to your breakfast
- Finely dicing a variety of veg into your favourite pasta dishes
- Roasting your veg with an array of herbs and spices
- Blending them into a dip or sauce e.g. red pepper and garlic hummus
- A piece of fruit as a quick snack
2. STAY HYDRATED
For a simple, yet effective how to start a healthier lifestyle tip is staying hydrated. Hydration is important for maintaining a healthy body and mind. The UK Eat Well Guide recommends a daily water intake of about 1.2-1.5 litres, with additional water necessary for exercise and sweating. However, it’s not just the amount of water you drink, but also the regularity with which you consume it that matters. Drinking water at regular intervals throughout the day, rather than in larger quantities, is the best way to keep your body hydrated.
The benefits of hydrating regularly are numerous and include: Improved mood stability, increased focus, headache prevention, smoother digestion and maintenance of cells in your body.
If you struggle to drink enough water, there are a few tips you can try to make it a little more interesting and easier to stick with. For example, try infusing your water with lemon, mint or berries to make it more refreshing on a hot day. You could also invest in a reusable water bottle to keep with you throughout the day. At work, try creating a hydration station with mix-ins and cups, or consider drinking herbal tea for a warm and hydrating option. With this simple how to start a healthier lifestyle tip, you will be on your way to
3. ADD FIBRES INTO YOUR DIET
Another how to start a healthier lifestyle tip is, ensuring that you are consuming an adequate amount of fibre. This critical to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Adults typically require around 30g of fibre per day. Fibre can be found in a vast range of plant-based sources, including fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, and many other plants. Despite being non-digestible, fibre is an essential carbohydrate as it aids in the smooth functioning of the digestive system. Moreover, it provides bulk for your intestines and prevents constipation. Additionally, studies indicate that consuming adequate fibre may also help reduce the risk of developing bowel cancer, heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.
There are several techniques to incorporate fibre into your diet to ensure that you are meeting the recommended daily intake. For instance, selecting wholegrain foods, such as brown bread and porridge instead of cereal. It would also be wise to choose less-processed food, as it typically contains a higher amount of fibre. Another useful tip is to try eating fruits and vegetables as snacks, adding beans or lentils to your meals, or even introducing nuts into your snacking routine. By making a few changes to your food habits, you can significantly improve your fibre intake and your overall wellbeing.
4. MIX UP YOUR PROTEIN
5. DON’T FORGET TO HAVE TREAT DAYS
6. MEAL PREP AND PLAN AHEAD
With these tips on how to start a healthier lifestyle, you should be on your way to a healthier you in no time!
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Why not watch some of Sarahs free workout videos and complement your diet with some exercise routines: