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Following a well-balanced diet is the key to healthy life and overall health. As the new year commences, it is a good time to reevaluate your dietary habits and lifestyle. This can help you implement a healthier lifestyle. Keep reading as we discuss which diet tips you should continue following in 2024.
1. Prioritise whole foods
Including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet provides essential nutrients, fibre, and antioxidants, leading to improved overall health. Plan your meals using whole foods, avoid processed foods, and opt for homemade meals as it allows you to have control over ingredients.
2. Portion control
Eating appropriate portion sizes helps prevent overeating, maintain healthy body weight, and control blood sugar levels. Use smaller plates, measure portions, and be mindful of your hunger and fullness cues.
3. Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water helps with digestion, nutrient absorption, appetite control, and regulation of body temperature. Drink water regularly throughout the day, carry a water bottle with you, and replace sugary beverages with water.
4. Emphasise plant-based proteins
Plant-based proteins such as legumes, tofu, tempeh, and quinoa are low in saturated fats and high in fibre, making them heart-healthy choices. Include plant-based proteins in your meals such as adding chickpeas to salads or using tofu in stir-fries.
5. Limit added sugars
Excessive sugar intake contributes to obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. Limiting added sugars is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being. Check food labels for added sugars, reduce sugary snacks and sweetened beverages, and opt for natural sweeteners like fruits.
6. Include healthy fats
Consuming healthy fats found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil supports brain function, heart health, and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Use olive oil for cooking, add avocado to salads, and include a small handful of nuts as a snack.
7. Practice mindful eating
Being aware of your eating habits, satiety, and enjoying each bite helps prevent overeating, improves digestion, and encourages a healthy relationship with food. Eat slowly, free from distractions, savour flavours, and recognise your body's hunger and fullness signals.