The New Year is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to set resolutions that will lead to lasting change. While keeping to a resolution can be challenging, especially in the beginning, gradually easing into new sustainable eating habits will help set you up for long-term success. Ready to make simple but effective changes? Our registered dietitian, Kristy Hogger, shares some practical tips below.
Be Realistic
It’s easy to start the New Year feeling motivated with a long list of goals, but it’s important to slow down and tackle them one step at a time. “Trying to change multiple aspects of your lifestyle at the same time can feel overwhelming and set you up for failure,” cautions Hogger. “Small, gradual changes are more likely to stick over the long term and add up to significant results.” Start with simple challenges, like taking the time to pack a lunch.
Hold Yourself Accountable
Staying accountable to your goals is crucial, but you don’t have to go at it alone! “Online support forums are a great opportunity to share successes and challenges with people who have similar goals,” says Hogger. “If weight loss or healthier eating is a goal, keeping a food diary is also an effective way to stay accountable on a daily basis.”
There are many inspirational online resources where you can find recipes and food swaps to support your resolutions. With so many blogs and forums available, it is important to find ones that fit your needs. Alternatively, you can set up a buddy system with a friend to help motivate and keep each other accountable for the goals you’ve set.
Think Beyond the First 30 Days
While the first month is often the most challenging, it’s essential to create habits that fit your lifestyle for the long haul. “By setting long-term goals, we can establish a vision for what we want to do or achieve once we have made a lifestyle change,” advises Hogger. Incorporating dietary resolutions starts with our choices at the grocery store. Stock up on ingredients that support your goals. For example, if you’re aiming to eat more vegetables, choose produce that can be used in a variety of meals like stir-fries, fajitas, and homemade pizzas. This approach will help make sticking to your resolution stress-free.
Sleep Better
A good night’s sleep is important for feeling energized and alert throughout the day. Hogger reminds us, “oftentimes, we tend to turn to comfort foods when we are tired and lacking energy. A good night’s sleep can help you stay on track with an exercise and healthy eating routine.” To help improve your sleep quality, try reducing caffeine, incorporating some exercise into your day, and resist the urge to binge-watch TV late at night.
Make Change a Little Easier
“Change is difficult, and no one is perfect! Small setbacks are perfectly normal,” says Hogger. “The important part is to get right back on track at the next opportunity.” If snacking is your challenge, keep pre-portioned options, nearby to help curb cravings. Don’t let a setback be a reason to go back to old habits. Give yourself some grace, refocus and continue from where you left off.
