Habit Forming

Redesign Your Routine:

 Instead of falling prey to whatever food comes your way, plan ahead by packing fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 

Replace Unhealthy Rituals: 

The best way to break a bad habits to replace it with something better. For instance, instead of coming home, slipping off your shoes and grabbing a fistful of chips or crackers to tide you over while making dinner, munch on cut-up veggies. If it's automatic eating- meaning you're not actually hungry- swap for a different action, like listening to music or a quick phone call to a pal. Expect to fell weird at first because you're restraining yourself. but keep at it and be patient: Establishing a new habit takes 3-4 weeks!

Rely On A Few Go-To Meals:

 Get accustomed to healthy eating routines by limiting yourself to 2-3 smart breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack options. When you narrow down your food choices, you up the odds of making better decisions. This is a short-term fix (follow it for 2-3 weeks) to get back on track.

Don't Be A Road Hog:

 Even if you eat well at home, it may not be manageable when you're out and about. Plan ahead by carrying fiber bars in your bag. Gnu and Oskri make some satisfying ones that your kids may ask for as a treat. And don't rule out chains: many now offer grab-and-go options, like Starbucks' Protein Bistro Box and Dunkin' Donuts' Wake-Up Wraps.

Delay Breakfast:

 If you like to munch all day, try to delay breakfast an hour or two. Otherwise, you'll consume too many calories overall. When you do eat, have something filling with protein, fiber, and fruit. Try whole-grain cereal topped with berries, chopped nuts and low-fat milk or an egg white wrap and an orange when you get to work (instead of right when you get up) you'll eat much less.

Pitch the Junk: 

Ideally, you never want to waste food. But better to throw away leftover cookies and cake thank be tempted to finish them up just because they're there. Empty calories leave you unsatisfied. Instead, fill up with with fruits, veggies, and lean protein like hard-cooked eggs, or low-fat string cheese. And when you want to indulge your sweet tooth, make sure it's with something truly worthy!

Sited: Family Circle Magazine June 2012