Nine Nutritious Tips for a Healthy 2012
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11 January 2012
1. Concentrate on nutrient dense organic wholefoods
Think vegetables that you can eat lots of without feeling full: leafy greens are number one, and then there’s carrots, radishes, cucumber, tomatoes, capsicums, beans, cabbage… the list goes on and on!
Best of all, the most nutrient dense foods tend to require nothing but a good rinse in preparation.
Choose organic wherever possible- it’s the natural way to ensure maximum nutrition without compromise.
2. Include complex carbohydrates in your breakfast & lunch
Wholegrains, from barley to brown rice and buckwheat, will keep you full and energised for a long period of time- meaning they’re especially important early on to get you through the day.
3. Incorporate a source of protein into every meal
Lean meats, eggs, cultured dairy products and vegetable based proteins (such as almonds, legumes and tempeh) satisfy hunger and keep your energy levels on the up, helping to curb wayward cravings.
4. Include healthy fats & oils
The fresher and less refined the better: avocados, coconut, nuts and seeds are great sources. Moderate dairy consumption and emphasise cultured, enzyme-rich products (here are recipes for kefir and yoghurt if you’re feeling thrifty!).
5. Sweeten foods naturally
Opt for unrefined sweeteners and avoid concentrated sweeteners altogether where possible. Include fruit (fresh and dried) and even sweet vegetables like pumpkin and sweet potato in your diet to help control sugar cravings.
6. Flavour foods thoughtfully
Good, fresh food is flavourful on its own- but nutritious additions like spices, herbs, vinegar, garlic and lemon (juice and rind) can make things much more interesting! Judicious seasoning is a must, whether its sea salt or soy you’re adding.
7. Use gentle cooking methods
Avoid the fry-pan and try blanching, steaming, poaching and roasting instead. Also be sure to incorporate lots of raw foods into your diet, whether in big leafy salads or crunchy crudite snacks- literally too easy, especially in summer weather!
8. Avoid processed, refined foods
Especially refined oils, sugars and grains which will fill you up without providing adequate nutrition. Be particularly wary of anything in a packet.
9. And most importantly, take the time to enjoy what you eat!
