Okay, so your healthy eating plan got a little off track over the weekend. Those summer treats were all too tempting. Someone served up some irresistible barbecue. But don’t give up and don’t punish yourself! Reboot your body from the inside out with these quick and easy clean-eating tips that will clean up your diet in no time.
WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE
Most people aren’t drinking enough water, even though our bodies are comprised of about 70% of it! Stick to this rule of thumb– try to drink about half your body weight in ounces of water. For example, a 130 pound person should drink about 65 ounces of water per day. And don’t forget to drink even more during and after a Pilates class to replace lost hydration during exercise.
Start your dat with a 6 to 18 ounce glass of room temperature water with fresh lemon juice squeezed into it to flush out toxins, aid digestion and provide essential nutrients like Vitamin C and Potassium.
SAY NO TO GMO
Genetically modified foods are produced from organisms that have gone through specific changes in their DNA through genetic engineering, resulting in the introduction of new traits and greater control over genetic food structure. Studies have shown that the consumption of GMO foods can actually genetically modify your own cells, accelerating the aging process! The top GMO offenders are corn and soy, so try to cut back on these products and stick to organic whenever possible.
CUT THE SUGAR
Sugar is an empty calorie food that can negatively affect the metabolism and contribute to various diseases including diabetes and liver disease among others. Replace refined sugars with natural sweeteners such as honey, agave, or stevia. Or satisfy that sweet-tooth with sweet fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or apples for a quick snack.
GOODBYE GLUTEN
More than half the population has a sensitivity to gluten and more than 55 diseases have been linked to it, but what exactly does gluten intolerance do to your body? Gluten sensitivity can lead to bloating, digestive issues, Keratosis Pilaris (i.e. “chicken skin”), fatigue, dizziness, inflammation or even mood swings. Try cutting gluten out of your diet for two weeks to see if you notice changes in the way you feel.
GOOD FAT
Fat gets a bad rep, but don’t fear all fats! Good-for-you fats containing Omega-3 fatty acids such as olive oil, avocados, almonds and walnuts provide nutrients to promote healthy brain function, energy, and healthy skin and hair. Plus, good fats can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Avoid saturated fats and stick to a balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to feel good on the inside and look great on the out!