Diets and fitness fads aren’t built to last. Making subtle changes to your everyday life will turn into regular lifestyle habits that will. Celebrate the New Year with these 15 little lifestyle changes that can help you become a healthier you in 2017.
- Do 10 sit-ups and 10 push-ups every morning.
In no time you’ll be so used to doing them that you won’t be able to wake up properly without them. Added bonus: eventually you’ll be able to crank up the number you do every morning, and you’ll reap the benefits of a toned physique. - Drink your coffee black.
The pure coffee will give you and your digestive system a jump in the morning. Plus, you’ll save on the calories without adding extras like sweetener and creamer. - Fill up on veggies.
Make half of every meal vegetables and always eat them first. The veggies will satisfy your hunger and you’ll be less likely to devour other unhealthy choices. - Eat actual meals.
Make the time and plan ahead for meals rather than snacking throughout the day. All-day snackers often end up eating more calories, versus those who plan out meals. That might sound like a challenge, but there are plenty of quick and easy meals for eating on-the-go. - Embrace the Crock-Pot.
Simplify your hectic schedule with dinners that are ready as soon as you walk in the door. This will eliminate the impulse to eat out because you don’t have the time or energy to cook, and there are tons of easy, healthy recipes that you can put together in the put in just a few minutes before bed the night before. - Try the two-bites rule.
Craving French fries? How about a divine pastry, some decadent chocolate, or salty chips? Take two bite-size pieces of whatever you’re desiring. Fill up a glass of cold water. Eat your first bite; be sure to eat it slowly so you savor the taste. Drink the glass of water, and then -slowly- eat the second bite. By savoring the bites, you’ll likely enjoy them more. Drinking the water will help fill you up so you don’t overindulge on your treat. - Stash a pair of dumbbells under your sofa.
Keep dumbbells near the TV so you feel inclined to do a few reps during commercial breaks. You’ll be able to sneak in mini workouts while you catch your favorite prime time show. - Trade soda for seltzer.
If you’re trying to kick your soda addiction, trade it in for seltzer. Since you’ll still get the fizz, it’ll be a bit easier than switching to straight water cold turkey. - Use your small plates.
Sometimes, appearance is everything. No one feels satisfied with an empty plate in front of them. Trick your brain into feeling satisfied with a full plate, just fill up the small one. - Ditch processed foods.
If you sincerely struggle with choosing healthy eats, at least vow to avoid processed foods. Here’s a quick list of some of the worst: chicken nuggets, hot dogs, fake cheese, Lunchables, Spam, Twinkies, soda, and French fries. - Stretch for a few minutes before bed.
Learn a few calming yoga poses and do them before you go to bed. You’ll calm your mind and body before rest, and you’ll likely sleep deeper. - Bring your own lunch.
Packing a lunch every day might feel like a daunting task, but it’ll help you be healthier and save money. Keep it simple with things like veggie wraps, quinoa salads, hearty soups, or leftovers from last night’s Crock-Pot meal. - Take the long way.
The average job requires sitting in front of a computer for much of the day. Plus, there’s the drive to and from, sitting down for dinner, etc. Take the extra time throughout the day to walk a little by taking the long way. Park further away from the front door, take the stairs, or run errands on foot to get in a little extra physical activity throughout the day. - Keep yourself hydrated.
Keeping yourself filled up on H2O keeps you full, energized, and focused. Keep a water bottle handy and full with you at all times. If you get crazy tuned-in at work and forget to drink up, set reminders on your phone. - Wear an activity tracker.
There are lots of varieties out there, everything from basic to bells and whistles, from economic to top of the line. Regardless of the brand, studies show that people who wear activity trackers move more than those who do not. Find one you like, and start paying attention to just how much activity you do -or don’t do- each day. You might be surprised!
Try them all, or choose the ones you think will benefit you the most. Every little step helps when you’re making lifestyle changes for a healthier you.