Ask-A-Coach: How To Develop Healthy Eating Habits for Anyone

If you know very little about nutrition, developing healthy eating habits can still be simple by starting with small, manageable changes. Begin by focusing on whole, minimally processed foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These provide essential nutrients without added sugars, salts, and unhealthy fats that are found in many processed foods.

Another quick habit change includes reading nutrition labels on the food you purchase. This will help you become more aware of what is in the food you’re consuming, and what to stay away from. Learning to recognize ingredients like added sugars and saturated fats can help you make better choices. Try and cook more meals at home so you have direct control over what goes into your food. You don’t need to be an experienced chef to cook basic meals using fresh ingredients.

Hydration is also a key factor when improving your nutrition. Limiting sugary drinks and focusing on water consumption is an easy habit change that can be done immediately. Pay attention to portion sizes and listen to your body’s hunger cues rather than eating out of boredom or habit.

If you’re unsure of where to begin, consider using reputable resources like USDA’s website for dietary guidance. Building healthy habits takes time, so focus on your progress and not perfection. Every small change matters, and it is all a positive step in the right direction.