Cut Out Processed Foods in 5 Weeks

Have you ever told yourself, “maybe I should cut out the processed food from my life?” If you have or were thinking about it here is a 5-week plan to get you started.

Week 1: Purchase only fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables. If you choose frozen read the ingredient list to insure that there are no added ingredients.

Week 2: Fresh Protein. Look for words such as: “organic,” “grass feed,” “all natural,” “no hormones added,” and “wild caught.” Whenever possible buy local protein options.

Week 3: Avoid food products that contain more than 5 ingredients. Make sure that you can also pronounce those ingredients. If you have no idea what an ingredient is you may not want to eat it.

Week 4: Choose home made treats. Yes, treats! Life isn’t about being perfect, but we should strive to make better food choices. Make your own treats at home with healthy alternatives and “real” ingredients.

Week 5: Avoid or limit fast food. Most fast food places use large amount of preservatives and food products that aren’t always what they seem (“meat”). If you do decide to eat out choose wisely. A few great options are Chipotle, Pollo Loco, Baja Fresh, or Panera Bread.

When making big changes such as these it’s important to focus on “the big picture”, a lifestyle change. Although “diets” can help us reach weight loss goals, a healthy lifestyle will help us maintain our goals.