Small steps to healthier eating

What small steps can I take to eat healthier? Usually I try something drastic that doesn't last.

A small step you can take is noticing all the fat you consume in your diet. Healthy fat counts too. I took a quick survey of my daily diet and realized I was eating too much fat (healthy fat: avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, sunflower butter) and this was holding me back from reaching my fitness goals (specifically shedding some extra weight in my hips and belly).

Also you can try replacing carbohydrates with veggies, whole grains, fiber, or protein. So for example, if you eat pasta regularly, try replacing the pasta with zucchini noodles, butternut squash, quinoa or lentil pasta. Spaghetti squash is also a great substitute for pasta. I love throwing a basic tomato sauce on these veggies with a dollop of cottage cheese for that creamy flavor.

If you make these changes part of your daily routine, eating them regularly, your body will begin to crave these healthy swaps and you will not crave the pasta as much (maybe for the occasional cheat meal).

I have found a new love for quinoa and I have been very creative with recipes. Quinoa is actually very filling and does not have give you the same unhealthy feeling you get after eating simple carbohydrates.

As for protein, eat your hearts content. Many people have a hard time hitting their protein goals each day, which can wreak havoc on your lifestyle. I noticed myself consuming and craving sugar way too much because I was not consuming enough protein. Once I made the switch to consuming higher amounts of protein per day, my sugar craving subsided AND I lost body fat.