Try these timesaving tips to help you choose healthier habits.
Get in the habit of... planning weekly menus.
The best eating plan is one that works for you. Visualize how your week will unfold. Plan for hurdles such as meetings that run through mealtimes, travel, company, etc. Plan a week's worth of meals, and then make your grocery list from the menu. If you're stumped about what to fix, Healthy Choice® has plenty of resources. Check out our recipes, or take advantage of Healthy Choice frozen dinners, Flavor Adventures, or Familiar Favorites. Healthy Choice meals can relieve the burden of mealtime preparation.
Get in the habit of... a bedtime routine.
According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep every night for physical and mental health. To minimize tossing and turning, pass up caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime. Avoid taking work or technical reading to bed. Reserve the bedroom for relaxing and sleeping.
Get in the habit of... watching portion sizes.
Whatever foods you choose, have a sensible portion. Healthy Choice meals, soups, and frozen novelties offer portion control. Or use these common images to help you visualize approximate portion sizes. They work whether you're at home or eating out.
3 ounces of meat = a deck of cards
1/2 cup of cereal, rice, pasta, or ice cream = 1/2 baseball
1-1/2 ounces of natural cheese = a 9-volt battery or 3 dominoes
1 teaspoon of butter, margarine, mayonnaise, or oil = a thumb tip
1 ounce of nuts = one small handful
1 tablespoon of salad dressing or peanut butter = 1/2 table-tennis ball
Get in the habit of... not skipping meals.
When schedules get tight, prevent a missed meal by having a grab-and-go backup close at hand. A sport shake, snack bar, or one of our Healthy Choice soup varieties in new microwaveable bowls works perfectly.
Get in the habit of… fitting in fitness.
Here are some ideas to help you fit movement into your daily routine. Every little bit counts!
At work: Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Take a walk during breaks or at lunchtime.
At home: Go for a bike ride. Walk the dog. Do chores such as window washing or vacuuming. Mow the lawn or wash the car. Lift hand weights while you watch TV.
On weekends: Walk a round of golf. Stroll around the park or zoo. Try something new: a swimming class, yoga, or Pilates. Join a recreational league.
Get in the habit of... taking time to be healthy.
Learn to say "no" to the things that supported your old, undesired habits. Practice saying "yes" to activities and people who support your new healthy habits.
With goal setting, time management, and positive influences, your old habits will be history and your new healthier habits will be automatic. Good luck making healthier choices!
