We all know that eating well is one of the keys to good health. But given the time and energy constraints, how can you improve your diet and make lasting changes? I asked my colleagues on the SOSCuisine Nutrition Team to share their simplest tips for eating well. They can be summed up in five steps. We suggest starting by following one at a time. Once you’ve mastered one, move on to the next.
1: Health ≠ slimness
Cooking allows you to become less reliant on processed foods and instead embrace fresh produce. Adding herbs and spices adds flavor while reducing your salt and fat intake. It’ll smell delicious in your home, and you’ll bring the family together around the table, creating great memories. Not to mention the sense of accomplishment and savings on your grocery bill. You’ll find beginner recipes here .
2. Eat more fruits, vegetables and plant-based foods
fruit vegetables vegetables fiber fiber
Let yourself be guided by the phrase of the American writer and activist Michael Pollan: ” Eat food , not too much, mostly plants.” This is a very simple tip because there is no need to calculate to improve your diet. Fill half of your plate with colorful vegetables, both at lunch and dinner. And replace some meat meals with legumes, nuts and seeds. You will find vegetarian recipes here .
3. Reduce your sugar consumption
It’s possible to desensitize yourself to sugar: The less you eat, the less you crave it. But it’s a transition that should be done gently. Start by drinking more water and fewer sugary drinks (e.g., cocktails and fruit juices, diet or regular sodas, etc.).
4. Listen to your hunger signals
Before eating or helping yourself to a second helping, ask yourself if you are truly hungry. Practice ” Hara Hachi Bun Me ,” like the centenarian Japanese who eat until they feel 80% full. Be moderate and get up from the table before feeling completely full.
5. Eat everything and enjoy it
Eating as many different foods as possible is the best way to ensure you’re meeting all your nutrient needs, quite simply, without having to do any math. Be open to trying new foods and, above all, take the time to savor them. When we take the time to savor them, we recognize our feeling of satiety more easily. If we only chew and swallow, we deprive ourselves of the true pleasure of eating. It’s by savoring that we become more critical and we no longer settle for pre-prepared meals, but we ask for homemade dishes again. Learn to treat yourself!