As a mom it can be hard to set aside time for yourself. This includes self-care, exercise, even cooking healthy meals. When we have a lot of emotional weight on our shoulders from taking care of the kids, taking them to and from appointments, school, activities, keeping a house clean, and for many of us working whether in or out of the house there seems to be very little time left in the day to take care of ourselves.
How though, are we going to continue being there for our family if we don’t take care of our own health. There are many different easy ways to change your diet and daily routine to make healthier choices.
Slow Down
Take a moment and just breath. Do what you can to organize your to do list. Keep yourself organized and plan ahead. Start early so you can take your time rather than rush.
Think Positive and Focus on Gratitude
It can be so easy to get stuck in a negative mindset. Just because one thing may not go as planned in a day, do not let it ruin the rest of the day for you. Remember what you do have and how each of those things are valuable to your family.
Choose Whole-Grained Bread
Refined grains are lower in fiber and many important nutrients as well as have a high glycemic index, which has been shown to mean a higher risk of metabolic diseases. Those who eat whole grains have been found to have few incidences of chronic diseases, healthier weights, and less depression.
Limit Fast Food
You do not have to ever give up something entirely in order to be healthy. Fast food on a regular basis, however, is very unhealthy. Limit the times you go get fast food. Even give yourself a set budget for fast food once or twice a month.
Cook at Home More Often
Since you will be limiting your fast food trips you should be cooking home more often. Go grocery shopping. Not only will you see a drastic change in your health by eating home cooked meals it’ll save on your monthly budget.
Meal Plan
Take time on a day that best works for you each week or two weeks and plan out the meals you’ll be making for your family. Having a plan gives you a chance to prepare you meals a head of time. I love using crock pot meals often for our meal plans. It makes it very easy each day to just put ingredients in the crockpot and let them cook.
Don’t Shop Without a List
Do not go grocery shopping without a list of all your specific needs. Once you have your meal plan you can make a shopping list of all the ingredients. Stick to your grocery list and do not buy impulse buys, especially of junk food. Also, do not go grocery shopping while hungry. It’s more common to have junk food impulse buys if shopping while you’re hungry.
Increase Your Protein Intake
Increasing your protein intake can reduce your appetite, increase muscle mass, boost your metabolism and increase fat burning. People who eat more protein have been found to maintain better bone health leading to lower risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Eat Fresh Fruits and Berries
Berries are loaded with antioxidants which help protect your cells. Berries are high in fiber, help fight inflammation, and may help keep your arteries healthy. Fruits have a good source of vitamins and minerals including potassium, fiber, vitamin C and folate.
Drink Enough Water
Generally, it’s believed you should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day. This will help you stay hydrated. There are also many claims that drinking lots of water may help you lose weight.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
As a mom getting a good night sleep, I know, is easier said than done. But if you’re able do all you can to get the sleep you need. A good night’s sleep can reduce stress, improve memory, lower your blood pressure and improve mood.
Sarah
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