Write a plan for improving the way you eat. Please refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Improving Your Eating Habits: https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/losing_weight/eating_habits.htmlLinks to an external site.
What do you currently eat during the day and where?
What foods you could continue to eat or add to your diet and why?
What foods you would decrease or remove from your diet and why?
Must include in-text citations and references.
Plan for Improving Eating Habits
Current Eating Habits
Currently, my daily meals consist of mostly processed foods and fast food, due to the convenience of my busy schedule. Breakfast typically includes a pastry or cereal bar, lunch is often fast food or a sandwich, and dinner varies but often includes pre-packaged meals or takeout. I also tend to snack on chips, cookies, or candy throughout the day.
Foods to Continue/Add
I plan to continue incorporating fruits and vegetables into my diet, as they provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Adding whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oatmeal will increase my fiber intake and provide sustained energy. Lean proteins like chicken, fish, and legumes will help build and repair tissues, supporting overall health.
Foods to Decrease/Remove
To improve my eating habits, I will reduce my intake of sugary beverages like soda and sweetened tea, as they contribute to excess calorie intake and offer little nutritional value. I will also cut back on processed foods high in added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium, such as chips, cookies, and fast food, as they can lead to weight gain and health issues.
Implementation Strategies
To implement these changes, I will:
- Plan Meals: Plan and prepare meals ahead of time to avoid the temptation of fast food.
- Grocery Shop Wisely: Make a list before grocery shopping and stick to it, focusing on whole foods.
- Portion Control: Use smaller plates and avoid eating straight from packages to control portion sizes.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water throughout the day and limit sugary beverages.
- Seek Support: Share my goals with friends and family for accountability and encouragement.
- Track Progress: Keep a food journal to monitor my eating habits and identify areas for improvement.
Reference
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Improving Your Eating Habits. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/losing_weight/eating_habits.html