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How To Get Healthy Eating Habits

By: Sydney Van Damme

Break Studios Contributing Writer

If you are not educated in nutrition, it can be intimidating to learn how to get healthy eating habits. While it's a topic that is mentioned briefly throughout your school years, there is generally not enough in-depth discussion on eating habits. In addition to that, there are conflicting messages in the media with regards to what constitutes healthy eating. To get started with eating healthy, you must have a plan of action. Also, be realistic with your goals. Don't expect to become a super healthy eater overnight. Ease your way into it.

  1. Make an appointment with a nutritionist. While standard primary care doctors have some nutrition training, it's really best to speak with a nutritionist. She will discuss your health conditions, dietary needs and what to eat and how often to eat it. In addition, she will provide you with a healthy eating plan which will be extremely helpful when you are embarking on learning how to get healthy eating habits.
  2. Keep a food journal. This is a great way to see what you are taking in on a daily basis. Also, the act of keeping track of that information will likely make you want to eat healthier. There are a few options for food journals. Use a simple spiral notebook and a pen to keep track daily. Another option is to utilize an online database such as www.sparkpeople.com. Try out both options to find out which is easiest for you.
  3. Reduce your consumption of sugar drastically. Americans, in general, consume too much sugar. It's often hiding in foods that we don't expect, such as ketchup. While it may not be realistic to completely eliminate sugar from your diet, reducing it should not be too difficult. This will go a long way towards improving your diet.

Tips:

Avoid drinking your calories. Substitute water for soda and juice.

Posted on: Jul. 26, 2010