It’s the start of a new year, which means that many people will be embarking upon diets or making changes to their weekly menus. Changing your diet can be beneficial for your health and well-being, but this is not always the case. In this guide, we’ll outline some essential factors to consider before you revamp your diet.
Nutrition
We often talk about diets as a means of losing weight, especially at this time of year when people make New Year’s resolutions. Modifying your diet can result in weight loss, but the primary aim should always be to improve nutrition. A nutritional diet nourishes your body, providing important minerals, vitamins and nutrients. Before you make any changes, analyze your diet and look for areas where you can enhance nutrition. Using a food diary app is a brilliant way to do this. Enter the foods you consume each day and look at the information. You may discover that your diet lacks fiber, you don’t get enough protein, or you’re consuming too much salt, for example. Once you know where you’re starting, you can adjust your diet.
Supplements and natural remedies
It’s increasingly common to use natural remedies and supplements to boost health and address ailments or issues. From low energy levels and anxiety to limp hair and dry skin, many people try to solve problems or improve their general health and well-being by taking supplements or trying natural therapies or products. The first thing to check if you’re thinking about using remedies or buying products like those that contain cannabis, for example, is legality. Check the current rules in your state and look for articles and guides online with advice from experts like Daniel Fung. The second box to check is suitability. Some supplements, herbal medicines or natural remedies may not be suitable for everyone. Speak to your doctor or a nutritionist or dietitian before adding to your diet.
Sustainability
Fad diets are incredibly popular at the start of the year. Studies show that of the 45 million Americans that go on a diet each year, around 50% try fad diets. There are two key issues with fad diets. Firstly, they are not always nutritious. Many diets restrict the range of foods you can eat and this means that it’s difficult to hit nutrition targets. Secondly, they are not sustainable. It’s common to drop weight quickly on a fad diet, but it’s not practical or healthy to follow these eating plans for a prolonged period. Most people who lose weight rapidly through dramatically reducing their calorie intake or cutting out food groups also gain weight quickly. Fad diets can also take the enjoyment out of eating and lead to food cravings.
Changing your diet can be beneficial if your goal is to optimize nutrition, but it is important to make sure that you’re making adjustments that will be beneficial and safe for you. Analyze your diet and get an idea of where you’re falling short. Seek expert advice before modifying your diet or adding supplements or natural products, and aim to make sustainable, long-term changes that will boost your physical and mental health.
