Sadly, a full 88% have likely already given up. Would you like to finally stick with your diet this year? First, start thinking less in terms of “diet,” and more “healthy lifestyle change.” Second, eat more of the following foods:
1. Spinach
Popeye was one smart dude. Spinach is one of the healthiest foods on the planet. It’s loaded with nutrients like Vitamins K and A, and folate. Whip up a quick and healthy raw spinach salad by combining baby spinach leaves with a squeeze of lemon juice, olive oil, fresh garlic, and a few almonds.
2. Beets
Beets are another food you should definitely include in your diet this year. Beets are high in folate, fiber, and potassium. If you don’t like raw beets, try roasting them and mixing them with some roasted sweet potatoes to lighten their earthy flavor.
3. Avocados
Avocados are actually a fruit, and one of the healthiest foods you can eat. Avocados are high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They are also a great source of fiber. Mix up a quick guacamole dip by combining avocado with lime juice, salt, onion, and minced jalapeno. Yum.
4. Blueberries
Blueberries are a complete superfood with too many benefits to list. Blueberries help combat aging, ward off disease, lower blood pressure, protect heart and brain, and improve memory.
5. Walnuts
Walnuts contain heart-healthy fats that can lower your cholesterol levels. Eat a handful of raw walnuts every day, or sprinkle some on your salads.
6. Sweet potatoes
While regular potatoes are one of the biggest causes of weight gain, sweet potatoes are one of the best sources of beta carotene. Beta carotene can help support healthy eyes. They’re also a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Try this healthy sweet potato chips recipe.
7. Salmon
Salmon is loaded with muscle-building protein and contains heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure you choose wild salmon over farmed, though. Farmed salmon is nasty stuff.
8. Eggs
There’s a huge misconception that eggs are bad for you. Nothing could be further from the truth. Eggs are one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can eat. They have 13 essential nutrients, and are a great source of protein and good fats.
9. Olive oil
Research shows that the Mediterranean diet, which is high in healthy fats like olive oil, can reduce your risk of cancer. Replace unhealthy foods in your diet, like margarine and vegetable oil, with olive oil. Here’s an extra bonus: olive oil has other uses beyond diet.
10. Dark chocolate
You’ll be pleased to know that dark chocolate is actually good for you–and you should definitely include more of it in your diet this year. Dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants and can even help lower your blood pressure. I recommend anything with 70% cocoa or higher to get the maximum benefits. Finally, knowing what foods to eat is great, but it won’t do you any good if you don’t get into the habit of eating healthier. Here’s how to do it: first, commit (in writing) to eating healthier and tell everyone you know. This helps hold you accountable. Next, slowly start replacing the foods in your refrigerator and cupboard with the ones above. The key to turning your “diet” into permanent healthy eating habits is to make it as easy as possible on yourself. If you stock your kitchen with unhealthy snacks, you’re going to reach for those unhealthy snacks when you need a quick fix. Fortunately, once healthy eating becomes a habit it’s second nature. And, it will lead to other healthy changes in your life.
