Meal Planning: Healthy Choices

It is a new year. And with the new year most people have pledged to lay off of the junk food, eat cleaner and drink more water. Hmmm, where have I heard that before? Oh yeah, I have said it myself! Alrighty then! Bring on the salad and bland food!

That is usually how most people think about clean healthy eating. A bunch of salad and kale. Bland tasting food and water. Lots and lots of water. But who said that clean healthy eating has to be bland or boring? There are a lot of ways to incorporate healthy eating into your lifestyle without feeling like you are denying yourself delicious food.

One way is to just say no to fast foods and drive thru's. Once in a while is fine, but it should not be part of your meal planning. Let's face it. It does not matter if you get a diet soda with your extra value meal. Especially if you are eating that extra value meal 5 out of 7 days a week. The extra large fries alone would put you over the daily calorie limit. Remember, moderation is key.

Another way you can change your food habits is to cook your meals yourself. This way, you control the about of sodium, sugar and fat that you want in your food. For instance, instead of frying something, try baking or broiling. Need to drink more water? Get natural flavored water, either flat or carbonated. Just watch for how much sugar is in the flavored brand and if you are like me and are not a fan of artificial sweeteners, make sure to check the ingredients. I am going to try and drink more water myself and I am pretty excited to try Avon's Espira Hydration. 2 grams of sugar and only 15 calories. Way less than soda, most juices and sweet teas!

And if you are going to swap out your seasonings, cooking oils and spices, look at the label! If you can't pronounce the ingredients, then leave it on the shelf. Pretty easy, right? Full disclosure, I am a Tastefully Simple Consultant. I am very proud to say that 90% of what they offer is clean label. Take a look at how TS Eat Well can help to keep your meal planning not only healthy but easy and simple as well!

So eat well, drink well and stay healthy this year. And if you can add any other fun and tasty ways to stay on track, please let us know. Just add your comments here on the blog!