Make Dairy a Part of Your New Year

OK, we’ll take it for granted that you’ve resolved to be healthier in the New Year — everyone does. The question is, how are you going to do it? After all, it’s one thing to say you’re going to do something; it’s quite another to put it into action.

Don’t fret. Hiland Dairy is here to help. Most New Year’s resolutions fail because they’re simply too difficult to stick with. That goes double for diets. So, let’s start by removing the “D-word” from your vocabulary. Instead of trying to stick to a regimented list of allowed foods (one that no doubt excludes all of your favorites), try a lifestyle change instead.

In other words, don’t change what you eat; change the way you eat. Here are a few simple suggestions:

Step 1 — Eat and drink more dairy.

Dairy foods are healthy, wholesome, and packed with the protein and other nutrients your body needs to build strong bones and muscles. We’re not just talking calcium here, either; dairy products are a good source of  niacin, potassium, folate and a host of other essential vitamins and minerals, from A to zinc. Studies show that dairy products can also help you lose weight if consumed in moderation.

Step 2 — Shop the perimeter.

That means buying your groceries from the perimeter of the supermarket. It’s where the good stuff is: fruits and vegetables, freshly baked breads, and the dairy products mentioned earlier. The closer you get to the interior aisles, the more products you’ll see that are processed and filled with added sugars and unnatural chemicals.

Step 3 — Keep it simple and cook from scratch.

You’d be surprised at how many recipes comprise only a few simple ingredients and take less than 30 minutes to make. And when you cook from raw ingredients, you know the meals you serve are as fresh and wholesome as possible. That’s better for your body — and better for your family. Plus, you’ll start to notice that they taste better, too.

Step 4 — Get in a little exercise.

This could be a short walk after dinner instead of heading right for the couch to watch TV. Parking a little farther away from the building at work can help you get in a few extra steps in every day. Take the stairs instead of the elevator if your destination is less than three floors up. Minor lifestyle modifications like this can add up to big changes when it comes to stepping on that bathroom scale.

Hiland Dairy is here to help. We’ve put together a free four-week email series with tips, recipes and coupons that will help you stick to your new lifestyle well beyond February. Sign up for it here. And, be sure to check TheHilandHome.com often for new recipes and other lifestyle tips.

Good luck, and Happy New Year!