Many of the most popular New Year’s resolutions are based around self-improvement – with eating a healthier diet at the top of the list. While easy to make, these resolutions are even easier to break.
According to Forbes, more than 40 percent of Americans make New Year’s resolutions each year. However, research shows only eight percent follow through and reach their goals.
This year, stop the cycle of broken promises. If you’re resolving to practice better nutrition, you’ll have a much better year if you fully commit.
These tips will help you stick to your New Year’s resolutions for a healthier 2017.
Do Your Research
What does nutrition mean to you? Answer this question before making a nutrition-based resolution. That means researching eating plans, creating grocery lists and bookmarking recipes. Starting without this info may have you falling back into old habits.
Be Realistic
Setting goals that are overly ambitious often end in disappointment. That’s because large changes are difficult to make all at once. Try setting small, attainable goals first and use them as stepping stones along the way.
Ease into It
Resolving to eat clean? Want to omit sugar from your diet? Trying to cut calories? These things don’t happen overnight. It’s a process that requires careful planning and time. For instance, clearing the pantry of all junk food is a good way to wind up binging. Instead, gradually filter out the bad while adding healthier choices to the mix. This will help your body acclimate to the changes and curb cravings.
Keep a Food Journal
From the creamer in your coffee to the mayo on your sandwich, start logging everything you eat. This will help to pinpoint eating patterns and where you can make improvements or adjustments. For example, after a week of journaling you may realize you’re not getting enough water or eating too much sugar. You can then make the appropriate changes for the next week.
Don’t Beat Yourself Up
We all make mistakes – so stop obsessing over that donut you ate during Monday’s business meeting. Shake it off. Move on. It’s all you can do!
Don’t Give Up
January 1st isn’t the only day to set a nutrition goal. So, if you’ve completely fallen off the horse come mid-February, don’t give up! Simply start over.
Lauren is a freelance writer and blogger from Chicago. When she’s not providing the latest in health and wellness, she can be found spending time with her family, baking delicious treats, or binge-watching the latest Netflix series.
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