Healthy eating is something that is very important for overall health but something most people seem to struggle with. Whether you're trying to lose weight, improve your health, or feel better overall, developing a strong healthy eating habit is key. 

If you're able to follow a well-balanced diet, it can ensure that you are getting all the vitamins and nutrients you need to achieve your health goals and feel your best daily. 

It can sound like a tough task, but making small changes over time will really help ensure your success when becoming a healthier eater. If you change everything all at once, you are less likely to be a success. Start with one small thing, like stop drinking sugary drinks or switching to healthier snacks rather than chips. Remember slow and steady wins the race. It's more likely to stick as a habit, changing one thing at a time. 

Check out these other simple ways to become a healthier eater below: 

2. Plan Meals Ahead

Like most things, planning ahead can make eating healthier much easier. Having a plan of what you’re going to eat for each meal will help keep you on track and not have that dreaded conversation of, “what are we going to eat for dinner tonight.” You know what I’m talking about. We all do it and we all hate it! 

Planning meals ahead of time can also help you add variety to your diet. Try collecting some fun recipes and maybe have a goal of trying to introduce one new ingredient or meal each week. That way you can try healthy versions of things you’ve never tried and maybe even find your new favorite snack or meal! 

3. Eat Breakfast

Eating breakfast is important for most people. If you start your day off right by with a nutritious breakfast, it can help keep you on track for the rest of your day. Eating small meals every couple of hours can help prevent binging.  If you get yourself in the habit of eating on a schedule, you’re less likely to get super hungry and overeat. A well-rounded breakfast should contain lots of protein, some fiber, and healthy fats. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are perfect for a nutritious and well-rounded breakfast.

5. Keep a Variety of Healthy Snacks Always Available

The best way to prevent a slip-up is to always be prepared. Sometimes hunger hits you hard and fast when you’re busy, and you tend to grab whatever is quickest. Most of the time that isn’t a healthy option, just something carb and/or sugar-filled that won’t even fill you up. So it’s just empty calories you are consuming. The easiest way to stay successful on your healthier eating journey is to always have healthy snacks readily available. Whether that’s tucked away in the fridge, stick some in your purse on the way out to run errands, or in your desk drawer at work. If you have healthy options available, you’re more likely to choose that one instead of junk food.

7. Stay Hydrated

Food is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to eating healthier. Many people do not think about sugary drinks and how much calories they will add to your daily intake. Even the ones that claim they are “healthy”, most of the time should be drunk in moderation. 

But it is very important to drink plenty of water throughout your day. Staying hydrated is very important and can help keep you feeling full for longer, as well as combat some cravings. Also, According to Harvard T.H. Chan, The School of Public Health, “Drinking enough water each day is crucial for many reasons: to regulate body temperature, keep joints lubricated, prevent infections, deliver nutrients to cells, and keep organs functioning properly. Being well-hydrated also improves sleep quality, cognition, and mood.”

Work on trying to only consume information that is positive or more about your goal. Especially on social media. Unfollow accounts that are promoting unhealthy food and follow more people that are health conscious and positive. Social media is a great place to find recipes, workouts, and wellness bloggers that can keep you inspired instead of tempting you with junk food. There are a lot of health influencers that are sharing healthy food swaps for healthier recipes to your favorite, not-so-healthy meals. 

Simply put, if you consume negative content you’re more likely to be in a negative space. Surround yourself with positive people and positive content, you will be more likely to succeed with your goals and become a healthier eater.

9. Practice Mindfulness

It is very important to listen to your body, especially when it comes to food. Practicing mindfulness while eating is a great way to create self-awareness in your life, while also creating healthy eating habits. For instance, if you feel hungry, eat a little something. If something you ate makes you feel bloated or have a slight stomach ache afterward, you might be sensitive to whatever you ate. 

To start practicing mindfulness, first, minimize all the distractions while you are eating and focus on your food. The way it looks, the way it tastes, the way it smells, and especially the way your body feels. This can really help you with overeating, as well as discovering any food that might cause you digestive problems.

10. Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself

Things happen and people mess up. We all have hard days and just want some chips or ice cream. But it’s important to not be so hard on yourself.  One snack or one meal isn’t going to ruin everything. Just get back on the horse for your next meal. Don’t throw in the towel and say you’ll start again next week. Just do your best and jump back in as soon as possible. Think about your “why” and remember you can do this.