Nutrition: Start with Small Changes

Most people want to eat healthier but struggle with making a plan and sticking to it. We often set goals that are overly complicated or we set too many goals and quickly become discouraged when we don’t achieve success.

Create an eating style that can improve your health now and in the future by making small changes over time. Consider changes that reflect your personal preferences, culture and traditions. Think of each change as a “win” as you build positive habits and find solutions that reflect your healthy eating style. Use the 5 tips below to find little victories that work for you.

1. Make half your plate fruits and vegetables - Prepare your fruits and vegetables without sauces, gravies, or glazes to lower the amount of sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars.

2. Make half of your grains whole grains - Find high fiber, whole-grain foods by reading the Nutrition Facts label and ingredients list.

3. Move to low-fat and fat-free dairy - Buy low-fat or fat-free cheese more often than regular cheese.

4. Vary your protein routine - Mix up your protein foods to include seafood, beans, nuts, seeds, soy, eggs, lean meats, and poultry.

5. Compare the saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar in your foods and beverages.

Source: ChooseMyPlate.gov