When we hear the term ‘eating clean,’ to us it simply means nothing but real, whole food is used, with nothing packaged processed. But don’t undermine flavor, texture and health benefits of each ingredient (think fresh fruits and vegetables, non-processed grains, meats, and seafood) on your healthy journey.
To say it easy would be half true especially in this era of processed, fat-free, high-sugar food, many of us just eat whatever seems good per time neglecting exercises and natural foods.
If eating healthy is what you really want and is probably part of your 2017 goals, have a healthy mindset; believe you can eat right and work out occasionally. If you feel good already, apply the following healthy tips to get started.
Hydrate
Drinking water and herbal teas throughout the day will keep your body hydrated and functioning optimally. Staying hydrated ensures your body can transport essential vitamins and minerals throughout and use them for energy. Water influences 100 percent of the processes in our body,” says Camel Bak hydration expert
Reduce inflammatory oils
Dodging industrial made oils—such as canola, vegetable, safflower, sunflower, and soybean—will boost overall health and reduce muscle soreness.
Reduce dietary sugars
You may not be eating chocolates by the hour or gulping cans of Pepsi, but that doesn’t mean sugars absent from your diet. You’re likely eating sugar throughout the day without even recognizing it. Sugar’s tantalizing hold and empty calories are wreaking havoc on your system. Reducing it, especially when it comes to working out, will help your body shift to burning fat, which is good for your waistline and steady energy.
Ditch the candy bar fix, afternoon sodas that accompany your lunch and late night bowl of ice cream that makes you feel plump
Boost anti-inflammatory foods
Oils such as rose, coconut oil, wild-caught salmon, spices (like thyme, turmeric, cinnamon and cloves) and dark leafy greens help to fight against chronic inflammation when used. For something sweeter, try fresh pineapple or cherries. These foods speed up recovery, provide consistent energy and strengthen the immune system via increased blood flow.
Eat fresh fruits
The power of three, these three fruits are ubiquitous in Nigeria. With less than 300 naira you can purchase all three to munch on throughout the day.
- Apples
One apple a day keeps the doctor away may sound cliché but it’s true. Apples are a great fiber source, but the skin contains quercetin, an antioxidant that packs antihistamine and anti-inflammatory power, and therefore may help protect you from heart disease and possibly allergic reactions
- Bananas
Ever felt hungry 10 minutes after grabbing a snack? Next time, reach for a banana. It is loaded with potassium, which can lower your blood pressure, and is one of the best sources of Resistant Starch, a healthy carb that fills you up and helps to boost your metabolism.
- Citrus fruits
All citrus, from limes to tangerines, are jammed with vitamin C, fiber, and small amounts of other nutrients and disease-fighting chemicals. It’s the C that makes citrus a powerfruit, says Glassman, because this vitamin counters the effects of sun damage, regulates oils glands, and can even prevent age spots.
