Foods That Will Help You Eat Healthy

Get on the healthy wagon!

You have all heard this before. Everyone wants to eat healthier, feel better, and possibly lose weight at the same time. Statistics show that 88% of Americans agree that we should be eating fruits and vegetables; however, only 8.9% eat the recommended daily intake of vegetables, and 13.1% eat the fruit needed. Quit going through the drive-thru, and have an apple instead. Once in a while, you can indulge in treats; however, limit them. Write down all the healthy foods you can think of, that you like, and look up recipes, but don't overload on added sugars, fats, and salts.

What should you eat?

One of the best things to do is eat in-season spring fruits or vegetables. They are as fresh as can be, and if you buy them locally, you support your local farmers. When you eat fresh fruits and vegetables, you can be assured that there are no added sugars or preservatives, like some canned foods. When you buy canned fruits and vegetables, look at the ingredients. Some canned fruits have added sugars, which you want to avoid.

How do you find out which fruits are in-season in spring?

If you have a year-round Farmers Market, this is a great place to visit. Local farmers bring their fresh fruits and vegetables straight off the farm. You are guaranteed fresh items that are brimming with all the nutrients at their peak. The same goes if you have a health food grocer near you, such as Earth Fare, Fresh Foods, and more.

Want fresh items that are not in season in your area?

This is where your organic and health grocers come in handy. They provide fresh foods that are shipped to them fresh from other parts of the country. You just have to check the labels and know what is in season in other parts of the country. The previously mentioned website is good for learning more about this.

Earth Fare has teamed up with local, and regional farmers to have them harvest all their produce and fruits, freeze them and send them to Earth Fare. This is a way of providing local items year round. When you buy these frozen fruits and vegetables, they are picked at their peak, and retain all their nutrients. You are also supporting local farmers.

Worried about the cost?

People use this as an excuse not to eat healthily. Buying canned and frozen fruits are more economical, but still provide the nutrients, you just have to check the ingredients. Sometimes you can find deals at your local stores, on both canned, frozen, and fresh, so don't let cost stop you. Another way to cut down on the cost of your grocery foods, is buying the off-brand. This can save you a few dollars on everything you purchase, which will add up to a lot of savings in the long run! If you truly want to eat foods that are healthy for you, you may have to sacrifice spending a little more money to get the necessary nutrients for your health.

Not a fan of fruits and vegetables?

Try finding new recipes, to incorporate more fruits and veggies into your foods. Add fruits to yogurts and cereals for a great start to any day. If you don't like the texture, perhaps you can get a juicer and drink your nutrients. V-8 realized this long ago. More and more people are drinking juices with fruits and vegetables mixed together. It is much better for you if you make your own. There are no added sugars or salts. Make a plan to start eating healthier today. Try a little at a time, and soon, you will only eat healthily. Have fun!