Food for Thought: Eating Well = Feeling Awesome!

We've all had our fair share of food adventures, from indulging in cheesy pizzas to battling those late-night ice cream cravings. But have you ever wondered what would happen if we took a detour down the healthy eating lane?

Eating healthily offers numerous benefits for your overall well-being. It helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity and related health issues. A balanced diet rich in nutrients supports optimal physical and mental performance, strengthens the immune system, and lowers the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Additionally, healthy eating promotes better digestion, improves mood and energy levels, and enhances the health and appearance of your skin.

Keeping a healthier diet is as easy as following these tips: 
 

1. Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables: Aim to include a variety of colour in your meals. They’re packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre while being low in calories.

2. Include lean protein sources: Include foods like skinless poultry, fish, tofu, beans, and lentils in your meals as protein helps build and repair muscle tissues. Looking for some inspiration? Check out these delicious, high-protein recipes from Sainsbury’s which have you covered from breakfast to dinner.

3. Choose whole grains: Opt for whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat bread, and quinoa instead of refined grains which provide more nutrients and fibre, helping to keep you fuller for longer. 

4. Limit processed foods and added sugars: Limit processed foods and added sugars: Minimise your intake of processed foods, such as such as ready meals, baked goods, and processed meats, which are often high in added sugars and unhealthy fats. Instead opt for whole or minimally processed foods. 

5. Control portion sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating and listen to your body's hunger and fullness cues. Try using smaller plates, bowls, and cups to help you control portions.

6. Plan and prepare meals: Planning your meals in advance and preparing them at home whenever possible will give you more control over the ingredients and portion sizes, making it easier to make healthier choices. Here are some top tips to get you started.

7. Read food labels: Pay attention to food labels and the ingredient lists - Look for products with fewer additives, lower amounts of saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars.

8. Stay hydrated: Try reducing the number of sugary drinks you have, and drink plenty of water throughout the day as this will help regulate your body temperature, help with digestion, and keep you hydrated.

Remember, it's all about making small, sustainable changes to your eating habits. Start with one or two tips that you think you can introduce into your daily routine and then gradually incorporate more over time. Every healthy choice counts!