Even the most health conscious people can have a hard time staying motivated to eat better. Habits can be hard to quit and one small slip on can often discourage people from getting ahead. It is possible though! Here are a few tips to get you started today towards a low sodium and salt free diet:
The Process
1. Define your purpose. According to a Harvard Medical Study, there are two kinds of rewards that motivate us. The first focuses on superficial pleasures like weight loss and looking good. The second refers to a sense of meaning and purpose that contributes to overall well-being. This second type is much more long-lasting as it encourages higher-quality relationships, being in charge of your own life, and personal growth. An example of this is a grandfather who cuts sodium out of his diet so that he can have the longest time alive to be with his grandchildren.
2. Set daily, weekly, monthly and yearly goals. By setting small goals first, you’ll ultimately work towards larger goals over time.
3. Keep a food and exercise journal. This is extremely helpful to track what and how much you’re eating. At the end of the day, rate your efforts and reflect on what went right or what went wrong. Look for patterns in your eating habits so that you are better able to tackle any slip-ups. For example, if you tend to stop by the snack machine at 4 pm, try making your own salt free trail mix to have handy during this time.
4. Enlist support from your friends and family. By voicing your goals you are able to hold yourself more accountable to achieving them. Your loved ones can also help to encourage you whenever you feel discouraged.
5. Don’t let a slip-up keep you from achieving your goals. Use positive affirmations to keep you going!
It takes almost 60 days for a new habit to form. After this time period of consuming little to no added salt, you’ll find that your taste buds will get used to not having it and you’ll stop missing it. You will even find that you prefer a low sodium diet and salt free free foods, as those with added salt will begin to taste excessive. Remember it just take some early steps to get prepared to transition to a low sodium or salt free diet. So just keep telling yourself to ‘Eat good, live great’!
Sources
“The missing rewards that motivate healthy lifestyle changes” by Srini Pillay, MD
“14 Tips for Getting (and Staying) Motivated to Eat Healthy” http://www.eatingbirdfood.com/14-tips-getting-and-staying-motivated-to-eat-healthy/