Proper nutrition is essential to virtually every aspect of health. Not only does it help you maintain an optimal weight, but it can also minimize your risk of disease and allow you to feel your best both now and into the future. Yet, with so many trending dietary fads, it can be challenging to know where to begin with nutrient-rich eating. Here are a few basic principles to get you started.  

5 Strategies for Taking in Plenty of Nutrients 

1. Strive for Variety

Nutrition can be daunting when you consider macronutrients like protein, carbohydrates, and fats, as well as micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Often, you can satisfy most daily requirements by eating a variety of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and nuts and seeds.

2. Choose Seasonal, Local Produce

Locally sourced, in-season produce tends to pack more of a nutritional punch than fruits and veggies that require long periods of transportation and storage. It’s often picked at peak ripeness when it tastes better and has the highest nutrient value. Shop your farmer’s market or local produce stands whenever possible.

3. Upgrade to Whole Grains

Pasta, bread, and other grain products get a simple upgrade when you reach for whole-wheat or whole-grain varieties. While the calorie count is identical in white versus whole-wheat bread, for instance, the wheat variety will have twice as much fiber and protein.

4. Make Gradual Changes

Adopting a new approach to nutrition is especially overwhelming if you try to make too many big changes at once. Instead, start slowly.

One week, you might ditch sodas or sports drinks in favor of water. The next, you could start incorporating a vegetable into every meal. These gradual changes will be more manageable and will also be easier for your digestive system to accommodate.

5. Cut Back on Heavily Processed Foods

Unlike nutrient-dense fresh produce and lean protein, heavily processed foods tend to be lower in nutritional value and higher in calories. Often, they also have more added sugar and sodium. Steer clear of processed cookies, cakes, chips, and similar snacks, or save them for once-in-a-while treats.

Even with the guidelines above, establishing a nutrition program tailored to your own individual needs may be difficult. For this reason, you can turn to the professionals from Eastern Hills Chiropractic. Having served the Cincinnati area since 1988, this trusted team offers consultations to help their patients take a practical approach to eating well and reaching personal goals. Find out more about their nutritional consultations online or call (513) 528-2200 to schedule an appointment.