A new year often inspires fresh starts and healthier habits. If you’re planning to improve your diet and overall health this year, it’s important to start with small, manageable changes. Dietitian Luna Jaiswal, known as one of the Best Dietitians in India, shares SMART tips for healthy eating that are simple, practical, and easy to follow.
Here are some straight forward smart tips for healthy eating to help you make 2025 your healthiest year yet.
1. Hydrate First Thing in the Morning
Start your day with one to three glasses of lukewarm water. Drinking water first thing in the morning supports kidney function and helps maintain hydration after a night of fasting. Adding lemon can provide Vitamin C to support immunity. This simple habit wakes up your digestive system, flushes out toxins, and helps improve metabolism.
2. Walk Barefoot on the Grass Every Morning
Take a few minutes each morning to walk barefoot on the grass. This not only connects you with nature but also helps reduce stress and improve your energy levels. The practice, known as “grounding,” can even enhance blood circulation and boost your mood. Grounding has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve sleep by regulating cortisol levels.
Addlife Tip: Combine this with a few deep breaths to kickstart your day with positivity.
3. Practice Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient practice where you swish 1-2 teaspoons of oil (like coconut or sesame oil) in your mouth for ten to fifteen minutes. It helps detoxify your body, improve oral health, and boost digestion.
Studies show oil pulling reduces harmful bacteria in the mouth, such as Streptococcus mutans, and decreases plaque, improving oral hygiene.
Make it part of your daily routine for long-term benefits.
4. Eat Fruits Between 10 AM and 3 PM
Mid-morning is the perfect time to enjoy fresh fruits. This is Pitta Kaal in Ayurveda, when digestion is strongest. Eating fruit during this time balances Kapha and supports optimal digestion.
Addlife Tip: Go for seasonal fruits—local produce is always better.
5. Don’t Skip Your Evening Snack
Consuming small snacks in between meal in the evening helps stabilize blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of overeating during dinner. Opt for light, nutritious options like roasted makhana, a fistful of bhuna chana, nuts, or bhel.
Addlife Tip: Avoid fried or sugary snacks that can lead to energy crashes later.
6. Try Eating One Meal Sitting Cross-Legged
Sitting cross-legged engages core muscles, improves spinal alignment, and can support better digestion through relaxed abdominal muscles. It’s a simple yet effective way to connect with your meal and enhance its benefits.
7. Pre-Soak Your Dals
Soaking reduces ant nutrients like phytic acid in dals, which can inhibit the absorption of essential minerals like iron and zinc. Soaked lentils are also easier to digest. Always soak dals before cooking. It’s a small habit that can have a big impact on your digestion.
8. Once a Week, Have Khichdi for a Meal
Khichdi provides a complete protein when made with a combination of rice and lentils, making it highly nutritious while being gentle on the gut.
Plan one lunch or dinner a week with khichdi to give your digestive system a break and enjoy a balanced, comforting dish.
Why Start Small?
The key to a sustainable *healthy eating plan for the New Year* is to focus on small, achievable changes. These steps might seem simple, but when done consistently, they can lead to significant improvements in your health and well-being.
Final Thoughts
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. With these SMART tips, you can set realistic goals and stick to them. Remember, consistency is more important than perfection.
If you’re looking for expert guidance, consult *Dietitian Luna Jaiswal*, one of the Best Nutritionists in India, for personalized advice tailored to your lifestyle and health needs.
Let this year be the start of a healthier, happier you!