Tips For Healthy Eating

By Alicia Wang

These past few weeks at home, I’ve spent more time cooking for myself –– french toast and eggs for breakfast, chicken breast and broccoli for lunch, and salmon for dinner –– all of which are nutritious and easy to make, not to mention yummy! But after a while of “clean-eating,” I found myself ordering delivery more and more often to spice things up. As good as Chipotle is for the soul, I know the best meals are the ones concocted in my own kitchen, because I am aware of what ingredients go into them. I can control the amount of protein, carbs, and fat they contain as well, which has been a crucial part of my ongoing journey to achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Here are a few tips that have helped me stay on track with my diet: Embrace variety! Part of this means eating all sorts of high-volume, low-calorie vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and mushrooms, but also not eliminating entire food groups, like some diets suggest. Remember, carbs or fats are not your enemy! I can now appreciate a filling bowl of oatmeal, or avocado on my toast. Unsweetened greek yogurt, too, has been a recent grocery-store staple of mine, as it makes for a nice treat with a scoop of vanilla protein powder. Or, add vinegar, garlic powder, and salt to it for a creamy salad dressing. To curb cravings for less nutrient-dense foods, I would recommend creating healthier versions by simply swapping out a few ingredients. Instead of ordering pizza, I’ll throw some pita bread into the toaster oven for a few minutes, wait until it’s crispy, add tomato sauce and toppings (low-fat cheese and turkey pepperoni), and then toast it again for a savory dinner that hits the right spot. Homemade popcorn is another great alternative to potato chips. There’s endless possibilities out there –– be creative! If you need any inspiration, you can always find recipe ideas on YouTube and Instagram. My last suggestion is to treat yourself every once in a while –– unless you’re superhuman, cutting out your favorite foods just isn’t sustainable. When I allow myself to indulge in the occasional donut or a side of french fries, I’m actually more likely to stay consistent and make smart food choices on a regular basis. Like in all aspects of life, striking a balance is key!