Aug 264 min read

5 Simple Strategies to Kickstart Your Healthy Eating Journey

5 Simple Strategies to Kickstart Your Healthy Eating Journey

Starting a healthy eating journey can feel overwhelming, especially with all the conflicting information out there. But the truth is, it doesn’t have to be complicated. As someone who has walked this path, maintained my health goals for over two decades, and helped countless others do the same through Always On Your Side Coaching (AOYS), I can tell you that it’s all about taking small, manageable steps. These strategies are not just about quick fixes—they’re about building a foundation for lifelong health and wellness.

Here are five simple strategies to help you kickstart your journey:

1. Start with One Small Change

One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to overhaul their entire diet overnight. This approach often leads to burnout and frustration. Instead, focus on one small change at a time. Maybe it's cutting back on sugary drinks, adding more vegetables to your meals, or eating breakfast every day. This is the essence of my "Power of 13" philosophy—13 simple, common-sense steps that, when combined, lead to a healthier lifestyle. By focusing on one small change, you’re more likely to stick with it and build the momentum needed to make more significant changes over time.

2. Prioritize Whole Foods

Whole foods—think fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains—should be the cornerstone of your diet. These foods are nutrient-dense, meaning they provide a lot of nutrition without a lot of calories. They’re also more filling, which can help with weight management. A good rule of thumb is to make half your plate fruits and vegetables, a quarter lean protein, and a quarter whole grains. This simple visual can help you create balanced meals that nourish your body and support your health goals.

Shopping list for clean eating. https://rb.gy/ncpj6o

3. Plan and Prep Your Meals

One of the keys to success in healthy eating is planning. Without a plan, it’s easy to grab whatever is convenient—which often isn’t the healthiest choice. Take some time each week to plan your meals, make a shopping list, and prep some of your ingredients in advance. This could be as simple as chopping vegetables for salads or cooking a batch of chicken breasts to use in different meals throughout the week. Not only does this save time, but it also reduces the likelihood of making unhealthy food choices when you’re tired or in a rush.

Here is my ebook for helping with meal planning: https://express.adobe.com/page/JkigvoQpwpKny/

4. Practice Mindful Eating

Mindful eating is about paying attention to what you’re eating and how it makes you feel. It’s easy to eat on autopilot, especially in our fast-paced world. But when you slow down and savor your food, you’re more likely to enjoy it and feel satisfied. This means you’re less likely to overeat or turn to unhealthy snacks later. Start by eliminating distractions while eating—no TV, no phones, just you and your food. Take the time to chew your food thoroughly, notice the flavors and textures, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.

5. Stay Hydrated

Water is essential for every function in your body, from digestion to temperature regulation. Yet, many people don’t drink enough water throughout the day, leading to dehydration, fatigue, and even cravings for sugary foods. Aim to drink at least six 8-ounce glasses of water a day, and more if you’re active. If you struggle to drink plain water, try adding a slice of lemon, cucumber, or a few berries for flavor. Remember, staying hydrated is one of the simplest yet most effective things you can do for your health.

Bringing It All Together

These strategies may seem straightforward, but that’s the point. The Power of 13 is about embracing the basics, the common-sense steps that are easy to implement but have a significant impact on your health. Through AOYS Coaching, I’ve seen firsthand how these small changes can transform lives. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress.

If you’re ready to start your healthy eating journey but feel unsure where to begin, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. Whether it’s through one-on-one coaching or joining one of my support groups, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Together, we can create a personalized plan that works for you, helping you build a healthier, happier life—one simple step at a time.

Remember: It’s never too late to start, and every small step counts. Let’s get started today.

Let me help you 💜,