We all know that making lifestyle changes can be difficult.
“I find that the two cuss words when it comes to lifestyle changes are…diet and exercise,” said Kim Brubaker, associate professor and dietician in the exercise, nutrition and sport sciences department at Sinclair Community College.
However, Brubaker encourages students that making healthier choices does not need to be difficult if students decide to make changes on their own.
“Anyone can make healthier choices, if they chose to for themselves. It takes pre-planning but healthy options are available,” Brubaker said.
The key to making healthier eating options is to be aware of foods’ nutrition and portion sizes, according to Brubaker.
“A 24 ounce bottle of cola can have an average of 13 teaspoons of sugar in it.” Brubaker said. “Which adds up to empty calories and no vitamins that your body is going to need. Water is a much better option.”
A great way for students to start improving their diet is to consume more water. Keeping water on hand is a great healthy option that can also be earth friendly, according to Brubaker.
“The best way to get more water is to have your own reusable water bottle with you all of the time,” Brubaker said. “That way you’ll be consuming more water without wasting plastic from disposable bottles.”
Brubaker also advises students to not make drastic changes to their diet all at once.
“I would never ask anyone to give up their soda 100 percent but maybe once a day try replacing a bottle of soda with a bottle of water,” advises Brubaker.
Brubaker advises students that planning ahead can aid in making better diet decisions.
“You can bring healthy, non perishable snacks with you so that you’ll have a snack prepared instead of having to go for something less healthy,” Brubaker said. “Adding seasoned fruit to your diet is also a wonderful option.”
If students and faculty are interested in receiving more health eating tips, Brubaker encourages them to visit www.chosemyplate.gov.
“The USDA has actually replaced My Pyramid with Chose My Plate because it helps people to establish their own diet plan and learn more about nutrition,” Brubaker said.
Brubaker acknowledges that while choosing healthy eating options is a great lifestyle change students should be able to make changes to their diets while still enjoying their food.
“People can and still should enjoy what they eat. The key is to remember what and how much you are eating,” Brubaker said.