In our busy lives, we often forget to eat healthily and quickly grab whatever is closest. Other times, out of laziness, we snack on treats while watching TV or sitting in front of the computer. It is very likely that we do not stop to analyze how well we are eating, nor do we make an effort to review or even make a radical change to our diet. Our friends from ActitudFEM share these questions to ask yourself before eating.  

 

4 questions to ask before eating anything

If your goal is to maintain your weight or lose a few pounds, we invite you to ask yourself these 4 questions before eating an unhealthy snack.  

1. Am I really hungry?

This may seem like a silly question because you are eating for a reason. However, many times we turn to food out of boredom, depression, anxiety, happiness, pleasure, or simply because we had the opportunity to try something. Make sure you are genuinely hungry before consuming unnecessary calories.  

2. Does this food fill a gap in my diet?

We eat to live, and that means food is necessary for our organs to obtain the vitamins and nutrients they need to function properly. In addition to being healthy, your daily diet should also be balanced. Think of every snack as a piece of your daily food puzzle and an opportunity to take something that your body is truly lacking.

3. Is this the right portion?

Depending on your weight and your goals regarding it, try to ensure that the snacks you consume do not exceed 150 calories, breakfast contains between 300 and 500 calories, lunch between 400 and 600 calories, and dinner around 400 to 600 calories.  

4. Is there a healthy alternative to this food?

We cannot always choose the healthiest option, and sometimes we simply do not want to when it comes to foods that bring us pleasure. The truth is that most of your meals and snacks can have a healthier option. Look for easy ways to reduce calorie, fat, sodium, cholesterol, and sugar intake. For example, instead of regular yogurt, opt for Greek yogurt; or instead of sugary cereal, choose fiber-rich cereal.    

Be mindful of the day you want to start a diet

If you have decided to go on a diet, you need to choose the day you will start wisely. Believe it or not, this influences the success or failure of your goal. This is supported by a study conducted by the British food program company, Tesco Diets, which showed that people who start a diet on Tuesdays are more likely to quit before a week is over and gain extra pounds instead of losing weight. Conversely, those who decide to start a regimen on Mondays tend to lose up to 4 pounds over 3 weeks, according to this survey. Another good day to start a diet is Sunday, as it has been shown that those who choose this day are more consistent, and in 88% of cases, good eating habits are maintained over time. The explanation for this, according to Tesco Diets, is that "we feel more motivated if we start the week dieting."   View original article.  

Diet Menu

 

Light Spinach Soup