Healthy Habit Hacks
In a world where there can be a lot of food noise that can cloud your healthy food choices, these hacks will help you thrive! Below are six creative ways to trick your brain into making smarter decisions while forming solid healthy habits. Whether your goal is to lose weight, move more, maintain a healthy body weight, achieve a healthy headspace, or somewhere in between, these strategies WORK…
The 5-Minute Fix
You can do anything for 5 minutes! Set a 5-minute timer to get your heart rate up with a brisk walk, some aerobics, or other simple physical activity. Same goes for doing the dishes, tidying up, and tackling other daunting tasks. Getting started is often the hardest part—once you break the seal and build momentum, you might just keep going!
The 10-Minute Pause
On the verge of overeating? Drink a glass of water and set a 10-minute timer. Chances are that the cravings for excess will subside. This also works when you’re tempted to respond rashly to a triggering email or text—step away from the situation, take a breath, and have a glass of cool water to help soothe your nerves.
In Sight, In Mind
This is the reverse strategy of “out of sight, out of mind.” It’s all about keeping healthy food right in your line of sight: a bowl of fruit on your countertop, ready-to-eat veggies front & center in the fridge, and so on. This trick also works with sneakers, activewear, and exercise gear like yoga mats and hand weights. If you can see them, it’s a subconscious reminder to use them!
Swapping 50/50
Make calorie-saving alternatives (like cauliflower rice, veggie noodles, extra-lean ground meat, and light condiments) more appealing & satisfying by mixing them with the real thing. You’ll get accustomed to the tastes and textures to the point that you might start using the swaps on their own in the future!
Veggies First
Before digging into the main course, start with salad, soup, or cut veggies with a healthy dip. This can take the edge off your hunger and effortlessly help you eat a more moderate entrée portion. And taking your time with a meal is always a smart move—it allows you to more accurately register when you’re full!
One Plate’s Worth
This one is especially helpful in group settings with appetizers, finger foods, desserts, etc. By telling yourself you can eat whatever you like but only one plate’s worth, you’ll be mindful about what you choose and better able to control your portions. Seeing all your food at once makes you more aware of your intake and less likely to overdo it.
I hope these hacks help you to achieve your healthy goals and until Wednesday, be happy, healthy and beautiful!