The new year holiday has come and gone and we’re now barrelling into 2018. Those health resolutions you made weeks ago are probably seeming a bit more difficult than they did when you first made them and you may be feeling a tad less motivated to stick to them.
However, we all know how important our health is, and that’s why I’m here to encourage you to stick to those goals and give you some tips on how to go about it.
Here are my 4 tips for sticking to your health goals this year.
Hide the Veggies
If vegetables aren’t your cup of tea but you’re still determined to get all the valuable nutrients they provide, it might be time to seek out some veggie-hiding solutions.
Many people like to consume their greens in the form of spinach or kale mixed into a smoothie, something that is demonstrated very well by this recipe from Minimalist Baker. This is a great way to get in a quick and easy afternoon boost and ensure you’re getting plenty of vitamins and minerals while you’re at it.
On the other hand, some people prefer to use soups, casseroles, and even sweets to hide veggies. I particularly love this spaghetti sauce recipe from Celebrating Sweets, as it disguises a number of different veggies quite well. Add it to whole wheat pasta for added health benefits.
Another good recipe is this Vegan Zucchini Brownie dessert from The Live-In Kitchen. Not only is it delicious, it actually provides your body with some nutrition, making these tasty morsels a win-win. Just be aware that the calorie count and sugar content is still high in these brownies, so you will want to consider how much you snack on.
Keep It Interesting
Sometimes, the issue with sticking to a strict diet is simply that we get bored eating the same things over and over again. Consider mixing it up a bit with different seasonings to keep meals fresh and interesting. For instance, this Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Vegetables recipe from Skinnytaste is low in carbs and calories while still being packed with flavor.
Of course, there are plenty of other great low-calorie, low-carb options that taste just as amazing. Try one of these recipes the next time you’re feeling bored with your dinner lineup:
Low Carb Chili from The Low Carb Diet
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Lettuce Wraps from The Garlic Diaries
Zucchini Pizza Casserole from Kendra’s Treats
Have Some Fun
Everything’s more fun with friends, including eating healthier. If you’re looking for ways to use food to celebrate with friends while still sticking to your health goals, you’re probably going to have to find some new recipes. Fortunately, I have several awesome ideas for you.
This Healthier Spinach and Artichoke Dip from My Sequined Life is absolutely delicious. Because it uses cannellini beans in place of the usual mayo and sour cream, the calories in this dip are reduced significantly, meaning you can indulge without guilt.
Another well-loved party appetizer are these Sweet Potato Parmesan Tater Totsfrom Half Baked Harvest. Gosh, these popable little treats are delicious! Serve them with the spicy sriracha ketchup this blogger mixes up for an extra tasty kick.
Now let’s talk protein. These Crispy Baked Chicken Wings from Fed and Fit are the perfect way to add protein to the table and add fun to the party. After all, everyone loves chicken wings, and these things are just as good as the traditional version without all the grease that comes from frying. Trust me when I say this dish will be a hit at any gathering.
Treat Yourself
Finally, my last bit of advice is to reward yourself every once in a while. Nobody’s perfect, and nobody expects you to be! By allowing yourself treats in moderation, you'll be less likely to feel deprived and more likely to accomplish your goals. So go ahead and have that cookie, but maybe stick with one cookie instead of two.
I hope these tips help you stick with your health resolutions this year. Everyone deserves to be healthy and happy, and by making an effort to maintain a healthy diet, you are sure to feel better than ever!
