By now, you're probably aware of the benefits of whole foods and the potential health issues that can come from eating a diet that's mostly filled with processed foods. It only makes sense to transition to a diet of whole foods, but making the transition can be a struggle for many people. After all, research has shown that processed foods can be downright addicting.
But by taking a well-planned, steady approach to add more whole foods to your diet — while eliminating processed foods — you'll make lasting changes that will help you look and feel your best while greatly improving your overall health.
21 Days To Eliminate Processed Foods
Studies show that it usually takes 21 days to turn a behavior into a habit. Once you've made a commitment to clean eating, your body will soon follow your mind's direction. Here are some tips to keep you on track over the next three weeks:
Up the fruits and vegetables.
Eat a minimum of two different fruits and vegetables with breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. Preferably make them organic fruits and vegetables. If there are certain vegetables that you've disliked for most of your life, get creative and try preparing them in different ways than you remember or have done before.
Switch to 'real' beverages.
Limit your beverages to coffee, tea, water and milk. Only use natural sweeteners such as honey or pure maple syrup. Limit yourself to one cup of juice during the week and eliminate soda completely.
If you feel full, don't eat.
We often eat when we're bored, stressed, or because we have a craving for something (often unhealthy) — but not when we're actually hungry. Be aware of how you really feel and stop eating when you feel full.
Monitor your meat consumption.
By week 3 you should be limiting your meat consumption to three to four servings per week. Furthermore, make sure that it's meat that's been locally raised, and don't make it the focal point of your meal but treat it as a side item.
Be smart with your salad.
A salad bar can be a great choice when you go out for lunch, but be mindful of what you're putting on top of those healthy raw veggies. Stay away from toppings such as croutons, bacon bits and crunchy noodles. Salad dressings are also loaded with unhealthy ingredients, so try healthier options, or leave your homemade (healthy) dressing at the office and bring your salad back to work with you.
Matrix Age Management provides a proactive program for women and men that stops the downward spiral of aging and brings people back to the pinnacle of their health.
