Nutrition isn't easy, or it often doesn't seem easy to maintain. The truth is nutrition does take some effort, but it is a worthwhile pursuit. Proper nutrition helps give us energy, supports our mood and maintains a satisfying and healthy weight. It doesn't require expert knowledge to maintain proper nutrition, but it helps to know a few effective tips.

AFC Urgent Care Stoneham is prepared with any nutrition questions you might have. Health and wellness are key to a proper lifestyle, and you need tools to get there. Call or visit our center for health resources and more information today.

 

Incorporate Small Changes

Diet is all about making consistent and thoughtful small changes. These minor changes are in constant flux to help the body maintain the desired intake of calories and well-rounded nutrition.

Paying attention to slight changes such as adding a new food or how hungry you felt after a specific meal can provide valuable information for the next day's nutrition improvement. Diet does not have to be all at once to be effective. 

 

Try Many Small Meals

Eating throughout the day is a helpful trick to maintain proper nutrition. Eating quality foods frequently during the day in smaller sizes helps keep the body feeling full. It also maintains balanced energy levels, preventing unhealthy snacking and encouraging movement.

Healthy snacks can help prevent overeating at larger meals and stimulate metabolism. This trick keeps the calories in check but does not leave a dieting feeling by not eating anything. 

 

Include Variety

Eating a variety of foods consistently provides balance, and this will help the body maintain its health and not feel hungry for one thing or another. There are different nutrients and benefits in each food, all of which the body requires in some amount.

 

Stay Active

Physical activity can have a significant impact on overall health. Movement such as walking keeps blood flowing, boosts metabolism, and improves mood. Taking the stairs or parking further away from the office is a great way to add more calorie-burning movements. Staying active can help boost creative thinking, protect the heart, and support the immune system. 

 

Healthy Fats

Fats are not all bad. Fats are an integral part of the diet but must be enjoyed in moderation. Not all fats are alike, however. Saturated fats are not as good for the body as unsaturated fats. Healthy fats such as nuts, fish, and avocado are delicious and heart-healthy. These should be eaten in place of processed meat fats or packed sweets.

 

Hydration

Staying hydrated can help with weight goals. The body needs to stay hydrated to properly function, as we lose moisture throughout the day. Drinking fluids, especially water, can replace lost fluid and keep us feeling full. Being thirsty can sometimes be mistaken for the need for another snack leading to more calories.

 

Maintaining Body Weight

Maintaining a proper body weight helps us feel better. A lack of activity or overeating can put on body weight, and excess food often turns to body fat, which can be bad for heart health. Staying active and eating the right amount of calories can help maintain a body weight that isn't detrimental to activity, joints, or cardio health.

 

Healthy Carbs

Carbohydrates make up a large part of the food that should be eaten. Carbohydrates provide valuable energy and fiber. Good carbs include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. These carb sources should be eaten at every meal to maintain energy, provide proper nutrients and maintain fiber levels. Fruits and vegetables are packed with nutrients and should be consumed

in at least five servings daily.

 

Don't Add Excess Salt and Sugar

Most foods do not need added salt or sugar. While it is common practice to add salt, it often can be replaced with a less detrimental spice such as pepper or a salt-free substitute. Salt causes an increase in blood pressure which is bad for cardiovascular health. Sugar is delicious but has many downsides as it can cause spikes in energy as it quickly enters the bloodstream. Even sugar from natural sources such as honey or fruit juice can cause problems. Excess sugar intake leads to high blood sugar levels, leading to Type II diabetes.

 

Incorporate Good Nutrition Daily

Nutrition is so vital to how you feel daily. Eating right and getting a little activity can work better than many prescriptions at managing some conditions. It's not easy to change all at once, but making small efforts and following simple memorable tips like these can be invaluable to overall health.