New Year intentions tips
As the new year rolls in, many of us set resolutions to eat healthier and adopt cleaner eating habits. However, sticking to these resolutions can be challenging amidst busy schedules and tempting food options. To help you stay on track with your clean eating goals, I’m going to give you five practical tips to incorporate into your daily routine.
But first….
Intentions, rather than Resolutions.
Psychologically, resolutions are focused on things we should or shouldn't be doing and are often attached to external outcomes, often tied up with guilt and judgement of them being ‘good’ or ‘bad’. Whereas intention-setting is an inward journey and ultimately less about doing and achieving than it is about being and becoming. Let’s focus on being and becoming, fitter, stronger and healthier.
Here are 5 tips to get you started.
1. Plan and Prep Your Meals:
One of the most effective ways to ensure you stick to clean eating is by planning and prepping your meals in advance. Take some time at the beginning of each week to plan out your meals, make a grocery list, and prepare ingredients. Having healthy meals readily available reduces the temptation to reach for convenient, processed foods when hunger strikes.
2. Choose Whole, Unprocessed Foods
Focus on incorporating whole, unprocessed foods into your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These nutrient-dense foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre while keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Aim to fill your plate with a variety of colourful, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to ensure you're getting a range of nutrients.
3. Practice Mindful Eating
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to eat on autopilot or while distracted by screens. Mindful eating involves paying attention to the sensory experience of eating, including the taste, texture, and aroma of your food. Take the time to savour each bite, chew slowly, and listen to your body's hunger and fullness cues. By being more mindful of your eating habits, you'll develop a greater appreciation for food and make healthier choices.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drinking an adequate amount of water is essential for overall health and can help support your clean eating goals. Often, feelings of hunger are mistaken for thirst, leading to unnecessary snacking or overeating. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day and consider carrying a reusable water bottle with you to stay hydrated throughout the day. Herbal teas and infused water are also excellent options for staying hydrated while adding flavour and variety to your beverages.
5. Allow for Flexibility and Balance
While clean eating is a worthy goal, it's essential to maintain flexibility and balance in your approach to food. Allow yourself to enjoy occasional treats and indulgences in moderation, without feeling guilty or deprived. Remember that progress, not perfection, is key to long-term success. Focus on making sustainable changes to your eating habits rather than adhering to strict rules or fad diets.
Conclusion
Staying on track with clean eating in the new year requires commitment, planning, and a mindful approach to food. By incorporating these five tips into your lifestyle, you can create a foundation for healthier eating habits that last beyond the initial excitement of the new year. Remember to be patient with yourself, celebrate your successes, and stay focused on your long-term goals for improved health and well-being.
As always, if you’d like individual help, reach out to a clinical nutritionist to help prioritise your health concerns, goals and intentions.
