March is National Nutrition Month, a great excuse to start eating well to keep your body strong and healthy.  But often people begin a new healthy eating plan only to see it go out the window after only a few weeks.  However, with a little preparation, long-term healthy eating might be easier than you think.  Here are a few tricks to get you started!

1. Make a list.

Studies show that people who shop for groceries without a list will buy more unhealthy foods, not to mention spend more money in general.  So take some time in advance to put a list of healthy food together.  If it’s too difficult to decide on all of your meals for the week in one sitting, have a list on the kitchen counter or refrigerator for when inspiration strikes.  If you have a list always available, you can add ideas that come to you while watching a cooking show or reading a magazine.

2. Cook in advance.

Having trouble getting enough vegetables in your diet?  Sometimes it seems overwhelming to chop veggies while preparing a meal.  However, if you cut them up in advance, you can easily add them to whatever dish you’re preparing.  Choose an afternoon to chop carrots, lettuce, onions, potatoes, cucumbers and other hearty vegetables.  From there, you can either seal them each up in baggies, or choose some to be roasted in olive oil and herbs then refrigerated.  You’ll be surprised how much more likely you’ll be to eat your greens when they are already prepared.

3. Keep snacks in mind.

It’s easy to remember to prepare in advance for meals, but sometimes we forget that we should be ready to eat healthy snacks too.  It’s much too easy to grab a handful of cookies instead of food that’s full of nutrients.  If you have small plastic containers, you can divide up your snacks for the next day easily.  Everything from a handful of nuts to some whole-grain crackers with cheese can be ready when hunger strikes.
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be overwhelming and difficult.  With a little planning, you can get on a healthy schedule of eating nutritious food. Freedom Home Care provides services for seniors who wish to remain at home.  If you or someone you know could benefit from our specialized services, call us at 708-433-5788 for more information.