How to Make the Switch to Healthy Food
Hey, folks, let’s talk about getting into the habit of eating healthy. Now, I’m not going to lie to you, it can be a bit of a challenge, but I’m here to help you get started. Here are a few things you can do to make positive changes in your diet.
Be Gradual
First up, make gradual changes. Instead of completely overhauling your diet all at once, try making small, gradual changes. For example, you could start by adding more vegetables to your meals or swapping out sugary snacks for healthier options like fruit or nuts. And let me tell you, folks, these small changes can add up to a big difference in the long run.
Plan Ahead
Next, plan ahead. Planning your meals and snacks in advance can help you make healthier choices and avoid impulse eating. Consider preparing healthy snacks to take with you on the go, or planning out your meals for the week ahead of time. When you have healthy options readily available, you’re less likely to make unhealthy choices.
Immerse Yourself
And let’s not forget about educating yourself. Learn more about healthy eating by reading books or articles, watching videos, or taking a class. Understanding the benefits of a healthy diet can help motivate you to make positive changes. And folks, the more you know, the easier it is to make smart choices.
Now, it’s also important to get support. Surround yourself with people who support your goals and encourage healthy habits. Consider enlisting a friend or family member to be your accountability partner, or joining a support group or online community focused on healthy eating. When you have a support system in place, you’re more likely to stick with your goals.
Focus on what you CAN eat
And lastly, focus on the positive. Instead of focusing on what you can’t eat, try to focus on all the delicious and healthy foods you can enjoy. Experiment with new recipes and flavors to keep things interesting and enjoyable. Healthy food doesn’t have to be bland or boring!
Remember, developing healthy eating habits takes time and effort, so be patient with yourself and don’t give up if you experience setbacks. With consistency and determination, you can develop a healthy relationship with food and enjoy the benefits of a balanced diet.
Read Books, Watch Youtube Videos & Movies on Eating Healthy Food!
If you’re looking to improve your eating habits and adopt a healthier lifestyle, there are a variety of books and videos that can help guide you along the way. Here are a few options to consider:
Books:
- “How Not to Die” by Dr. Michael Greger: This book takes a deep dive into the science of nutrition and explores the link between diet and chronic disease. It offers practical advice on how to eat a plant-based diet and includes over 100 recipes.
- “The Omnivore’s Dilemma” by Michael Pollan: In this classic book, Pollan investigates the origins of our food and how our diets have changed over time. It explores the impact of industrial agriculture on our health and the environment and offers a compelling argument for eating a more plant-based diet.
- “Salt, Sugar, Fat” by Michael Moss: This book takes a critical look at the processed food industry and how it has contributed to the rise of obesity and chronic disease. It offers insights into how food companies use salt, sugar, and fat to create addictive products and how we can make healthier choices.
Videos:
- “Forks Over Knives”: This documentary explores the benefits of a whole-food, plant-based diet and features interviews with doctors and nutrition experts. It includes practical tips on how to transition to a plant-based diet and includes over 100 recipes.
- “Food, Inc.”: This documentary takes a critical look at the food industry and how it has impacted our health and the environment. It explores the impact of industrial agriculture on our food supply and offers insights into how we can make more sustainable and healthy choices.
- “Fed Up”: This documentary examines the role of sugar in the American diet and how it has contributed to the rise of obesity and chronic disease. It offers practical advice on how to make healthier choices and includes interviews with doctors, nutritionists, and other experts.
Healthy Places to Eat in Missoula:
Folks, if you’re on the lookout for some healthy places to eat in Missoula, MT, I’ve got some good news for you. This charming city nestled in the foothills of the Rockies is teeming with some vibrant food spots that cater to health-conscious diners. Here are a few restaurants that you should definitely check out:
The Good Food Store
First up, we have The Good Food Store. This health food store and café offers a wide range of healthy, organic options that include soups, salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. Let me tell you, folks, their hot bar and salad bar are second to none, with a rotating selection of healthy and delicious dishes that are sure to leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
https://www.goodfoodstore.com/Home/
The Market on Front
Next up, we have the Market on Front, a local favorite that offers a variety of healthy options, including vegan and gluten-free dishes. Their salads and sandwiches are made with locally sourced ingredients, so you know you’re getting the freshest and healthiest ingredients in your meal. Plus, their smoothies and juices are absolutely fantastic.
https://www.marketonfront.com/
Masala
And let’s not forget about Masala, an Indian restaurant that offers a variety of healthy options, including vegetarian and vegan dishes. Their menu is full of flavorful and aromatic dishes made with fresh ingredients and spices that are sure to excite your taste buds and leave you feeling good.
Now, if you’re looking for something fast and casual, check out Five on Black, a Brazilian restaurant that offers a variety of healthy options, including bowls with a base of greens, rice, or quinoa, topped with a variety of protein and vegetable options. And if you have any dietary restrictions, no worries, folks, they also have gluten-free and vegan options.
Basal
Salads, anyone?
May I say – these are not your ordinary salads. They’re super delicious, with a wide variety of toppings, dressings, and flavor combinations that will leave your taste buds singing. The chicken caprese is a fan favorite, but the Brussel Caesar salad is also not to be missed. And let me tell you, folks, the half order is a perfect portion for one person.
Now, if you’re looking for something vegetarian or vegan, don’t worry, Basal has you covered. They have a great selection of vegetarian options, and everything is so tasty and interesting. And let’s not forget about their homemade bone broth, which is perfect for a cold Montana day.
And if you need a pick-me-up, Basal also has an espresso bar that serves up some of the best coffee in town. And the best part? Everything is made with the same attention to detail and quality ingredients as the food.
Now, let’s talk about the prices. Yes, it’s true that Basal is not the cheapest option in town, with prices ranging from $11 to $15 per generous portion. But let me tell you, folks, the quality of the food and the atmosphere make it worth every penny.
https://www.basalhospitality.com/
In Conclusion
No matter what your dietary preferences or restrictions may be, there are plenty of healthy options to explore in Missoula. So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to check out these and other healthy eateries for a delicious and nutritious meal that won’t break the bank.
And don’t forget to keep yourself immersed in eating healthy!
John Michaels is a local Missoula author who graduated from Brown University in creative writing. In between raising kids, he spends his time meandering around downtown Missoula, writing screenplays, playing chess, and writing blogs for Sunflower Counseling, MT.