We live in a fast paced world no doubt, and there will always be room for chocolate cake for breakfast or even a slice of pie for lunch. The bottom line is that no one is perfect, and you need to allow yourself a few indulgences every once in a while. Now, these indulgences should happen few and far between especially if you are following a diet. If you follow these 6 basic healthy living tips, you will find yourself living healthier and livelier.
Drink Water
It sounds so simple right? Wrong. Most people do not even get close to the amount of water they should be drinking daily. The daily consumption amount is eight 8-ounce glasses, or a half-gallon per day. Ditch the sodas and the empty calories. A good majority of the time you should stay away from drinking your calories, and instead eat them. Even better, add a little lemon to your water to add more health benefits!
Cook From Scratch
This concept is rather new to some people, but it truly ensures that you have control over what you put in your food. Whether it be good, or bad you will have the authority to make a healthy meal (or not). When you cook from scratch you also enjoy the food you are consuming much more, because of the extra work it took to prepare. Don’t have time to cook from scratch? Plan ahead, and cut up necessary ingredients ahead of time so that the hard part is done already.
Color is Key
When you are consuming foods, color is your best friend. The foods with the brightest natural colors are usually the best for you! Enjoy veggies, and fruits along with lean meats and fish. The artificial flavoring is what you need to stay away from, as it does more harm than good to your body in the long run.
Stay Active
At least 30 minutes per day. No excuses, and no reasons why you are not doing this. By making yourself get out there and get active you are doing your body a huge favor. Your metabolism kick starts, your blood and heart rates get pumping, and your bones, ligaments, and joints stay young. Energy creates energy, never forget that!
Sleep
You would think sleeping and staying active contradict themselves, but they actually do not. The more exercise you get, the more tired you will be at the end of the day. Your night’s sleep is the most important time for your body to rest and recover in preparation for the coming day. Napping throughout the day is okay, but not recommended as you are not getting your body into full circadian rhythms as you would at night.
Eat Breakfast
I am sure you have heard this a million times over, but eating breakfast is truly so important for your overall health and well-being. Not only does it prepare your body for the day, it also helps guide your body through cravings it may have without breakfast. People who skip breakfast usually tend to consume more calories throughout the day, because their bodies are deprived of calories from the start. Have a nutrient dense breakfast, and you will notice your energy levels rising throughout the day.
While these tips are ones you have probably heard before, it is extremely important to try and incorporate them into your everyday life. If you are overwhelmed, try and work on one at a time until you have conquered the entire list without thinking out it! Good luck, and get out there and live healthier!