Let’s face it – a lot of us want to eat well, but when it comes to actually doing it, we fall short. We give in to temptation and sometimes overindulge. Eating well, however, is something you need to place higher up on your life’s priority list for several reasons.
Here are just 10 of reasons why you should start eating more healthily (or keep up the good work if you already are doing it!):
You’ll Feel Happier – Eating certain foods will impact our brains in different ways. Certain foods such as bananas and dark chocolate contain mood-boosting nutrients that can help us battle any blues we may be feeling. Eating processed food or too much sugar, on the other hand, can leave us feeling irritable and moody.
It Helps Control Your Weight – Obviously, when you eat healthy food, you’ll find that you will maintain – or even lose – weight. Make small changes like opting for water instead of soda or enjoying a side salad instead of greasy fries. These little changes can impact your body positively over time!
You’ll Probably Eat Less – Have you ever felt like your stomach is a bottomless pit when you munch on unhealthy snacks? Maybe you’ve experienced hunger shortly after eating take-out or fast food. When you eat fresh, healthy food, however, you will be supplying your body with the vitamins and nutrients it needs to stay full for much longer!
You’ll Become More Productive – If you want to be productive, you need to fuel your body with healthy, wholesome food. Eating a balanced diet will help give your brain and body the energy they need to help you stay focused and become more productive in whatever you choose to do.
It Will Boost Your Immunity – Who wants to be sick? No one! Give your immune system a boost by paying more attention to what you put on your plate. Research has shown that healthy food, especially complex carbs and foods containing probiotics, can help strengthen your immune system and reduce your chances of getting sick.
You’ll Lower Your Stress Levels – While exercising, getting plenty of sleep, and engaging in activities you enjoy every day can certainly help you manage your stress, certain foods can help you moderate the way your body reacts to stress. Some studies have shown that foods containing vitamin C, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, in your body. Reach for more fish, fruits, and vegetables to leave stress in the dust.
Your Taste Buds Will Change (for the Better) – There probably aren’t many people out there who would willingly opt for a kale salad over a cheeseburger. But when you eat healthy food for a few weeks, your taste buds will change and you’ll find that your cravings for sweet or salty foods will fade! Soon you’ll crave the natural sweetness of fruit instead of soda or candy.
You’re More Likely to Avoid Chronic Diseases – Over the long-term, eating unhealthy foods can raise your risk factors for developing chronic diseases including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and obesity. Some studies have shown that at least 30% of cancers are linked to having a poor diet. Even more reason to load up on the fruits and veggies!
You’ll Age Better – Want your skin to look refreshed and healthy? You are what you eat, and your skin will show it. When you consume fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants such as fresh berries and salmon, your skin’s cells will become healthier, which can slow premature aging.
You Could Extend Your Life – Eating well can help you avoid diseases that could lower your life expectancy. Some studies have shown that those who eat 7 or more daily servings of fruits and vegetables are 42% more likely to live on any given day compared to those who eat little to no produce. No matter how you look at it, a healthy diet filled with bright fruit, lean meats, and leafy greens can play a vital role in how long you’ll live.
The Lifestyle Center is all about helping others learn, adapt, and look and feel their best. We care about your health and want to help you achieve your goals. Call us today at (314) 863-5556 to schedule a free consultation with us!
