THERE’S NO ONE size fits all when it comes to dieting and eating healthy.
But a balanced diet is an important part of maintaining good health.
It doesn’t have to be difficult and no one is suggesting all treats go in the bin…(though we are in the middle of Lent.)
Most diets have been proven to fail and for a variety of reasons. Often, they can do more harm than good.
But follow these 10 essential diet tips and you won’t go too far wrong.
1. Variety is the spice of life…
Eat foods of all colours and types, and use every opportunity to try new foods — this is healthy for the body and the mind!
2. Drink ad libitum to stay hydrated…
For daily hydration, use water and avoid the sugar-laden drinks. Try putting a wedge of lemon to make you drink more.
3. Burn the fat, feed the muscle…
Add healthy fats to your diet from nut oils, oily fish and avocados.
4. Little and often to keep your metabolism fired up…
Add a good source of high protein food every time you eat.
5. You are what you eat…
Take the time to invest knowledge, time and money in what you put into your body.
6. Step rule…
If it took more than two steps to get from its source to your mouth, then you know it’s been highly processed.
7. Keep salt to a minimum
Only cook it, removing it from the table and avoiding processed foods.
8. Fail to prepare, prepare to fail…
A good plan is only one that is followed — think about what you are going to eat the day before, and prepare snacks, so they are at hand when needed.
9. Jump back on the bandwagon…
It’s okay to indulge in a treat once in a while, instead of wasting time being negative about it — just enjoy it and move on!
10. Keep it simple…
Balance, variety and moderation are three key nutrition tips for a healthy you.
· This article was put together with the kind help of Limerick-based research assistant in Performance Nutrition and Exercise Physiologist, Alexandra Cremona. Alexandra studied and worked for several years in Scotland, first in Sports and Exercise Science followed by Dietetics. She has provided support to several athletes from Trans-Atlantic rowing to middle-distance triathlon.