TOP 10 TIPS FOR HEALTHY EATING HABITS

1. Chew slowly and properly

Chewing throughly mixes saliva with the food and begins the digestive process. Secondly, it breaks down the food into small pieces that helps the stomach to process it quicker.

2. Eat 50% raw foods

Raw fruit and vegetables contain living enzymes that help to breakdown the food. This takes the pressure off the pancreas which produces many of the enzymes.

3. Avoid over-eating

Eating too much places high demand on digestive organs unnecessarily.

Stressed people don't digest their food well. Blood is diverted to muscles in response to a perceived threat and not given to the stomach to do its job.

5. Drink plenty of water

Hydration is important for adequate production of Hydrochloric acid in the stomach and therefore aids in digestion. 2 litres of fresh filtered water should be drunk each day.

6. Eat fresh

Shopping regularly for produce means you are eating fresh stock that has not been growing mould or deterioring on the shelf. Having a well stocked pantry with wholegrain staples is useful for snacking and healthy cooking options.

7. Eat regularly

Avoid skipping meals as this can lead to over eating due to hunger. Eat every 4-5 hours to give the body regular fuel. IT is preferable to have some form of protein in snacks and for each meal to sustain energy.

8. Exercise

Aim for 3-4 times a week to increase blood flow and oxygen to cells. It also regulates appetite, blood sugar and metabolism.

9. Balance

Eating something indulgent is not off the list. Balancing 90% healthy choices with 10% unhealthy is sensible for long term compliance.

10. Think positive

A positive frame of mind means you will make good choices about what you eat and be less likely to be dictated to by food manufacturers and advertising.