The basics of eating healthy don’t have to be as complicated as many of today’s diet fads can make it seem.

There is so much information out there that that aims to teach you how to achieve “the perfect diet” that it can all become a little overwhelming.

If you can stick to these five basic rules when you piece your three main meals of the day together, you can count on them to help you reach sustainable goals that will last long term – and boost your quality of life overall.

Essential Omega three Fatty Acids

The human body cannot make these types of fats and they are essential for optimal health. They are used to form strong cell membranes, can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and lessen your risk of heart disease. Fats so not make you fat.

Fibre

Almost 80% of Irish people do not eat enough fibre. It is absolutely crucial for your digestive health and aiding regular bowel movements. You can get this in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts.

Different types of fibre help to lower blood cholesterol, keep you fuller for longer, stabilise blood sugars to prevent those pesky cravings and feed the good bacteria we need in our gut.

Probiotics

Speaking of good gut bacteria – you won’t have any unless you eat these types of food! Examples include sauerkraut, natural yogurt, kimchi, kefir, tempeh and kombucha.

Good gut bacteria will help you develop a strong immune system, having a healthy gut may even help improve your mental health. How can you argue with that?

Dark Green Leafy Vegetables

They are packed with vitamins such as A, D, K and Folate, minerals such as iron and calcium, and they are high in volume whilst being low in calories.

Bulking up your meals with plenty of dark green veg will to help increase satiety and keep calories low.

Hydration

Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to work properly. It’s absolutely crucial that you ensure you drink enough to match your energy output, always aiming to have a urine colour which is clear and lightly straw coloured (TMI).

Ensuring you stay hydrated can also help weight loss goals as we often confuse thirst for hunger!

Have any questions? Pop me a message @nathalielennon_ or tag me in your post workout selfies!