Health
What does it take to incorporate a new healthy habit? by Jennifer Smith, MS, RDN
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enerally speaking, change goes through many stages from pre-contemplation to continued commitment. Everyone has different motivations for change. Making a small change, rather than a drastic one can be easier for many people. There is even some evidence to back up this theory. The National Institute of Health’s “Changing Your Habits for Better Health� handout has some terrific ways to start those healthy habits. (https://www. niddk.nih.gov/health-information/dietnutrition/changing-habits-better-health) It is a four step system to create the motivation for change: 1. Imagine a healthier you. 2. Create a plan. 3. Put your plan in motion. 4. Add variety to stay motivated. An example of this process for increased blood sugar control and weight loss might
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Consider looking at the the pros and cons of changing your lifestyle when you are contemplating change. What are lifestyle changes that you can add to improve your life and what are the consequences if you continue on the same path? look like imagining yourself joining a local CSA (community supported agriculture) delivery service or attending the local farmers market for increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Next, you might have the CSA delivered or take a trip to the farmers market. When your box arrives or you get back, you might continue your journey by putting your plan in
motion using those fruits and vegetables in your daily cooking. Finding new recipes and ways to utilize the produce would keep it interesting to stay motivated. Consider looking at the the pros and cons of changing your lifestyle when you are contemplating change. What are lifestyle changes that you can add to improve your life and what are the consequences if you continue on the same path? Ask yourself some questions regarding the changes you might make. Will this lead to better health? Will I have more energy? What are the financial costs? Imagining a healthier you can create the framework for change. Psychologists suggest using small steps in order to lead to big successes when making lifestyle changes. For example, if someone wants to lose weight, they may start by making healthier food choices. These small changes can be as simple as adding that fresh fruit or vegetable to your breakfast. Once that VIVARESTON.COM
