Three Easy Ways to Instill Healthy Eating Habits in 2023

Story & photos by Ashley Sornsin

It’s a New Year and goals are great to set, however, let’s make this year all about creating healthy eating habits. Implementing daily habits, over time, add up to big changes. This mindset, shifting away from a big end goal to focusing on daily habits, will help you tackle anything in front of you, including healthy eating. Here are three easy ways to instill healthy eating habits in 2023!

Instead of focusing on eliminating food groups or limiting calories, focus on what you can add! Fill your plate with colorful, nutrient-dense whole foods, like fruits and vegetables. Food variety is key, so think about ‘eating the rainbow’ when it comes to choosing what to eat. Nutrition experts have suggested that we try to eat 30 different plants a week for gut health, immunity, and even to boost our mood. All colors offer different nutrients and antioxidants, so it’s no wonder experts are saying, ‘the more the merrier’ when it comes to color and variety.

Snacks are having a moment, as there are endless options of packaged snacks. Many are appearing as ‘health foods’, however, one must carefully read labels, as these food manufacturers know what fillers to add to keep us coming back for more. Instead of turning to packaged snacks (of course, not all are created equal), look for healthy whole-food alternatives. Fruits, vegetables, hardboiled eggs, yogurt, nuts, seeds, think anything that doesn’t have a label or has very few ingredients. Also, now is the time to give your cupboards a good cleanout so unhealthy snacks are no longer available as an option.

Prepping isn’t new, but it’s something you must take seriously if you want to create healthy eating habits. As the saying goes, ‘failing to prepare is preparing to fail’ so meal prep is an essential step for those who want to succeed. Start with the meal that you often overlook, maybe it’s breakfast or lunch. There are so many easy ways to prep both of these meals, whether it’s overnight oat jars for breakfast, or portioning out last night’s leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch. Having a meal prepared ahead of time means you won’t be reaching for the lunchroom donuts, running to the vending machine or ordering takeout. Preparing something ahead of time also means you’re more likely to make healthier choices.

Here’s to setting goals and implementing healthy daily habits. It’s the small changes that lead to the greatest difference. May 2023 be the year you commit to making healthy eating habits a priority, where you prioritize colors over calories, overhaul your snack situation, and take the time to meal prep. n

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