For many, the quest for healthier eating can feel like a labyrinth of conflicting advice and unattainable standards. For nearly every trend or recommendation there seems to be a conflicting set of opinions. Worse, the over-hype of expectations – especially for outcomes like weight loss – can result in a sense of failure when those lofty goals aren’t immediately achieved.
We’re here to tell you it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing journey.
Having a goal in mind is important when you consider making nutritional or lifestyle changes. But making progress, even if just a little at a time, is what really matters.
Our Pure Essentials president, Melissa Crispell, is an experienced nutrition coach. She tells us, “the secret to lasting change lies in embracing a mindset that celebrates progress over perfection, focusing on the spectrum of good, better, and best choices.”
Let's look at how this approach can revolutionize your nutrition and overall well-being and help you live undoctored.
Good: Incremental Changes
Change is hard. Let’s first acknowledge that. There will be struggles…but you can do it.
For those beginning their journey or struggling to find time for a complete overhaul of their diet, starting with "good" choices is a meaningful step. It's about making small, manageable swaps that gradually build up to a healthier lifestyle.
If you've already embraced organic foods, commend yourself for that! Then, consider integrating one additional serving of vegetables or fruits into your daily meals. Maybe it's substituting refined sugars with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in your morning coffee or desserts. Maybe it’s saying know to a highly processed entree, side dish, or desert, and yes to something fresh and natural.
Every small change counts. Perhaps it's opting for whole-grain bread instead of white bread, swapping out soda for sparkling water, or dropping highly processed coffee creamer in favor of organic creamer from nuts or oats. These seemingly minor adjustments, when consistently applied, pave the way for sustainable progress.
Better: Consistency & Variety
Moving towards "better" choices involves expanding and diversifying your healthy habits. Consistency is key and when you commit to the plan, you’re putting yourself on a better path to wellness.
Aim to incorporate a rainbow of fruits and vegetables into your diet, ensuring you're getting a wide array of nutrients. Experiment with different cooking methods to keep things exciting—roasting, steaming, or enjoying them raw in salads. Make a fun hobby out of finding and trying new recipes!
Explore whole-food sources of protein like legumes, nuts, seeds, and lean meats. Gradually reduce your reliance on processed foods by preparing meals at home whenever possible. This step encourages a deeper connection with your food and allows you to control ingredients, leading to healthier outcomes.
Moreover, focus on hydration. Swapping sugary beverages for water or herbal teas can make a substantial impact on your overall health. It's not just about what you eat, it's about what you drink, too, and consistently layering good hydration discipline with healthier eating habits will help you get to those goals.
Best: Nurturing A Holistic Approach
Striving for the "best" choices involves a holistic view of nutrition and life. It's about nourishing your body with whole, nutrient-dense foods while also prioritizing sleep, managing stress, and staying active. Seek to incorporate mindfulness into your eating habits by eating slowly, savoring each bite, and paying close attention to hunger cues.
Consider setting specific, achievable goals. Try planning your meals for the week or dedicating a few minutes each day to mindfulness or relaxation techniques. Commit yourself to good sleep habits. These practices, when consistently integrated, create a foundation for long-term health and well-being.
Remember, the journey towards healthier eating is not a race. It's a gradual, personalized expedition. By celebrating every step – no matter how small – you're fostering a positive relationship with food and paving the way for sustainable, lasting changes.
We encourage you to keep a wellness journal. It takes just minutes each week. Tracking food, exercise, and sleep is helpful, but more importantly, make note of your goals and progress, remind yourself of why you’re making the effort, and highlight your achievements along the way.
To the person out there juggling all of life’s responsibilities and stressors, know that progress is about consistent effort, not unattainable perfection. Embrace the "good, better, best" approach and with each positive choice, you'll be steering yourself towards a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle.
