Oranians

By changing your eating habits, you can transition from eating high-calorie, sugar-laden fatty foods to enjoying lowfat, high-fiber meals and snacks. You?ll lose weight and keep it off, while reducing your risk for diabetes, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, stroke, cancer and heart disease. And what more, you?ll feel better and more energetic.

Of course, changing your eating habits can be difficult. It takes time, focus and a bit of work. The secret to success is to make changes gradually, one at a time. Here are three simple goals you can begin doing right now to help make you healthy.

1. Eat seven to twelve servings of fruits and vegetables every day. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and fiber. It?s healthy, filling and naturally low in calories and fat. Remember to increase intake gradually. Too much fiber too soon can make you feel bloated.

2. Consume eight glasses of water daily. Since you?ll get some water from food, you can drink at least six glasses of water. You?ll?need this much to stay hydrated, maintain energy and sustain your metabolism. You need to be hydrated to be able to exercise.

3. Use lowfat cooking techniques. Avoid frying and sauteing in oil or butter. Instead, steam, bake, grill, stir-fry, braise or poach.

As you change your eating habit, it would also help if you keep a food log to keep track of your progress. It will help you figure out when or why you?re overeating. It will help you focus on small, concrete, realistic goals like eat five fruits every day this week. You can also use your food log to monitor how you?re feeling on your journey to better eating habits.

With this simple goals and steps, eating more healthfully will become a habit.