Little changes can add up to big differences. If the idea of healthy resolutions in January is overwhelming (or overplayed) for you, consider these 25 simple ways you can have a healthier 2013. This is a have-your-cookie-and-eat-it-too approach that really works!
- Assign yourself a new parking spot at work, as far away as you can.
- Substitute half-and-half in recipes that call for heavy cream.
- Google a baked version of your favorite fried recipe.
- Swap your uncomfortable shoes for a comfortable pair. You'll walk more if your feet feel good.
- Switch to drinking water at lunch or dinner.
- Use a spritzer to cook with olive oil, rather than pouring it from a bottle.
- Split a dessert at the restaurant instead of ordering your own.
- Trade weeknight after-dinner snacking for one great dessert on the weekend.
- Trade mindless TV time for a crossword puzzle or brain teaser.
- Order popcorn at the movie, but without the extra drizzle of butter.
- Switch to low-sodium versions of canned chicken broth, meats, and vegetables.
- Instead of rushing away from your desk at the end of the day, take two minutes to close your eyes, breathe deeply and stretch your arms, back, and neck.
- Trade crowded escalators and elevators for the stairs.
- Swap your dinner plates for salad plates; you'll eat smaller portions without realizing it.
- Substitute equal parts applesauce for vegetable oil in baking recipes.
- Get the cheeseburger, but order a side salad instead of fries.
- Double-slice your pizza, making twice as many servings. You'll eat less, but feel like you're eating more.
- Choose sorbet, sherbet, or gelato over regular ice cream.
- Order salad dressing on the side instead of tossed in. Dip your fork in dressing then into your salad for flavorful bites that use significantly less.
- Switch to decaf and diet versions of your favorite beverages.
- Instead of taking a coffee break at work, take a 15 minute brisk walk. It will wake you up as much as a dose of caffeine.
- Substitute a night out at the movies with a physical activity, like ice skating or bowling.
- Change your cookie dough scoop for a smaller size. (Remember to cook them a shorter amount of time.)
- Try mashed cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes.
- Trade commercial break channel surfing for 30 seconds of pushups or sit-ups.
Do you have any other subtle substitutions? Share your ideas in the comments section!
