The pandemic has forced people to change their lifestyles. This is problematic now that obesity rates are increasing at an alarming rate.
More people are now more reliant on processed and unhealthy foods as we try to cope with the stresses of everyday life. It’s a big problem because it is causing obesity rates to skyrocket. People need to find new ways to eat healthily, or else obesity rates will continue to rise. Here’s how you can eat more healthily (and safely) during the pandemic.
Change Your Dinnerware
Let’s start with something that people in the kitchen often overlook: their dinnerware. The type of dinnerware that you use can have an impact on how healthy you are. If you’re using too small plates, you’re likely to overeat. Studies have shown that people who use larger plates tend to eat less. So, if you want to eat healthier, ditch the small plates and opt for larger ones.
You should also avoid using bowls when possible. Bowls can be deceiving because they make it seem like there is less food than there is. This can lead to overeating. If you must use a bowl, make sure it is a smaller one.
Additionally, the material of your dinnerware can also affect your health. Bacteria and all sorts of nasty microbes can live on your plates. However, a melamine dinnerware set can stop that from happening. It’s FDA-approved and has been known to kill up to 99.9% of bacteria. Plus, it’s dishwasher-safe, so you can easily clean it.
Start a Vegetable Garden
Since the pandemic hit, gardening has become a common hobby in the United States. People are looking for ways to pass the time and relieve stress. Gardening is a great way to do both of those things. It’s also a great way to eat more healthily.
When you grow your vegetables, you can be sure that they’re organic. As a result, you don’t have to worry about pesticides or other harmful chemicals. Plus, you’ll know exactly where your food came from and how it was grown. Gardening is also a great way to get some exercise.
If you don’t have a lot of space, you can still start a garden. Plenty of vegetables can be grown in pots or small spaces. Tomatoes, lettuce, and peppers are just a few examples. So, even if you live in an apartment, you can still have a garden.
Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating. Eating more fruits and vegetables is one of the best things you can do for your health. They’re packed with nutrients and antioxidants that are essential for good health. Plus, they’re low in calories, so you can eat as much as you want without gaining weight.
Fruits and vegetables are also great for your mental health. Studies have shown that people who eat plenty of fruits and vegetables are less likely to experience depression and anxiety. So, if you’re feeling stressed, include plenty of these foods in your diet. If you have your garden, then you’ll never run out of this healthy produce!
Stock Up on Healthy Snacks
Healthy snacks are essential for anyone who wants to eat more healthily. When you have healthy snacks, you’re less likely to cave and eat something unhealthy. Plus, it’ll save you money in the long run.
There are plenty of healthy snacks that you can choose from. Fresh fruits, vegetables, yogurt, whole-grain bread, trail mix, and nuts are great options. Opt for dark chocolate or dried fruit instead of candy or cake if you have a sweet tooth. And if you get hungry between meals, reach for a healthy snack instead of raiding the pantry.
Meal Prep Ahead of Time
If you’re struggling to find time to cook healthy meals, then meal prepping might be the solution. Meal prepping is when you cook all your meals for the week ahead of time. This way, you can heat them when ready to eat.
Meal prepping is a great way to save time and money. You can cook in bulk and freeze your meals, so you always have something healthy on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure you eat healthy foods regularly. If you find yourself snacking more often than you’d like, try meal prepping ahead of time.
There are plenty of other ways to eat more healthily. Just make sure that you’re doing what works best for you. And don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many healthy foods out there, so you’re sure to find some you love. Just remember to focus on the tips above, and you should avoid obesity during this pandemic in no time!
