10 Non-Resolution Resolutions
Liv Friis-Larsen
Forget your typical resolutions….to lose 50 pounds this year, to fit into a size 4 or to hit the gym 5 days a week. This year make a resolution that’s attainable, without a number attached! Here are some non-resolution resolutions for 2011.
It takes small changes to meet your long-term goals. So if you are trying to lose a significant amount of weight, think about the road you’ll need to take in order to get there. Those should be your New Year’s resolutions. Start small and build on it.
Most folks rush out the door, too busy to grab anything to munch on. Instead of staying hungry, unfocused and without your morning energy -- make time for something small. Leave fresh fruit on the counter or pour a quick bowl of whole-grain cereal with milk. Adding breakfast can make a world of a difference in your day.
Unfortunately, many folks don’t eat enough veggies. Think about the type of veggies you enjoy and how you can easily add them to your daily diet. Some simple ideas:
- Dip sliced veggies (carrots, peppers, cucumbers) in hummus for a healthy snack.
- Instead of plain eggs for breakfast, make a veggie omelet.
- Steam broccoli or cauliflower and drizzle with olive oil or Parmesan cheese as a quick and easy dinner side.
- Opt for minestrone or vegetable soup when ordering up your work lunch at the office.
- Add a green salad to dinner.
- More ways to add veggies to your diet
It’s that time of year to clean out your food stores. Toss those expired and moldy products and replace them with healthier options.
If you’re a white rice and white bread kind of person, you may decide to up your whole grains this year. Besides adding more fiber to your diet, it helps decrease the risk of colon cancer and high cholesterol, keeps you regular and makes you feel full. There are a plethora of whole grains to choose from including brown rice , bulgur, oats and quinoa. You can also replace your cereal and pastas to the whole grain varieties. Check out our whole grain cereal and whole grain pasta taste tests before heading to the market.
Please don’t go sign up for a gym and tell yourself that you’ll go everyday -- that usually lasts a month, at most. Instead, choose activities you really enjoy: I’ve picked up boxing, cardiotennis, running and Zumba. Walking, swimming, basketball or any other activity that gets your blood flowing count, too. If you’re really pressed for time, you can easily move more while going through your daily routine -- here are 5 easy ways.
An easy way to stay motivated to eat healthy and exercise? Team up with a friend or family member -- someone to share the good times and bad, and help you stay on track.
Writing out a list helps your healthy eating plan and your budget. It forces you to double-check if you already have the item in your pantry, and makes you think about what you’re planning on cooking throughout the week. Make it over the weekend so you don't have to wonder "What's for dinner?" on busy weeknights.
Yes, snacks can (and should) be part of a healthy diet! Aim for mini-meals with between 125 and 200 calories that include vitamins and minerals to help balance out your diet. Here are tips on how to cut 100 calories from your snacks and some healthier snack ideas.
If you’re looking to eat locally, this year is a good time to start. Find the farmers’ markets closest to you and pay them a visit. Get to know your local farmers and learn about the produce that is grown in your neck of the woods.
Looking for healthy recipes, healthy eating tips, up-to-date nutrition news? Keep checking into our to help you stay informed and motivated to eat healthy in 2011. Plus, sign up for our weekly Healthy Eating Newsletter and follow Healthy Eats on Twitter and Facebook.
Toby Amidor, MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian and consultant who specializes in food safety and culinary nutrition. See Toby's full bio »
