(NAPSA)—When it comes to living a healthier lifestyle, adding a little variety to your routine can help keep you inspired. It also makes daily activities, such as eating a balanced diet and exercising, more enjoyable. “Even minor modifications to current habits can lead to big improvements in overall wellbeing,” said registered dietitian and nutritionist Evelyn Tribole, M.S., R.D. Ms. Tribole offers the following tips to help you get on track: * Fight Brain Drain. Morning or afternoon slumps often occur because the brain needs more fuel. Try keeping some quick snacks on handto give you a burst of energy, such as one cup of yogurt, one cup of highfiber cereal, half of a sandwich, 1% oz. of low-fat cheese and a few crackers, or one cup of fresh fruit with two tablespoons of peanut butter. Drink Water. Staying hydrated is essential to a healthy lifestyle. Drinking water before meals may also be a good way to keep your appetite in check. Fruit,0, a refreshing flavored water with a fresh-picked taste, is a great alternative to plain water. It comes in eight delicious flavors so there’s one to suit virtually any preference. Avoid Mindless Eating. To prevent mindless eating (which may lead to overeating), try eating as an exclusive activity. This can be incredibly difficult for multitaskers. An easy solution is to designate one meal or snack as “sit and savor” time. This simple change in routine can help individuals make better food choices throughout the day and enjoy more satisfying meals. Shake the Sodium Habit and Protect Your Bones. Calcium is an essential bone-building mineral. Many dietary factors are associated with bone health and some may interfere with calcium absorption. For example, high sodium intake may result in increased calcium excretion, especially when coupled with a low calcium intake. Foods don’t have to taste salty to contribute sodium to your diet. Check labels for sodiumcontaining ingredients in foods and beverages. Get Moving. Try walking before and/or after you’ve had a large meal. In addition to being an excellent way to burn calories, physical activity provides signifieant health benefits, such as inereased metabolism, increased bone strength and increased stress tolerance. Don’t Deny Yourself. Being mindful of caloric intake is a good idea. However, don’t forget to treat yourself to a reasonable amount of your favorite treats. There are no forbidden foods, as long as you eat everything in moderation. A balanced dietis best.
