Three Resolutions for a Better You

This year, ditch the temporary diet stints and establish “SMART” goals for a better eating plan that works for you. “SMART” stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Results-Focused, and Time-Bound. By thinking of your New Year’s resolutions this way, you are more likely to achieve them. For example, instead of resolving to eat healthier in 2015, resolve to bring your lunch to work at least three days a week.

Think of your resolutions as goals; not as changes that will happen overnight, but rather healthy habits you work on to achieve your goals.

Come 2015, commit to (at least!) one of these three goals:

1. Start your day the smart way, with a bite to eat.

By now, most of us have heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Think of it as the opportunity to kick start your body’s metabolism and energy needed for the day. If you are not too keen on having a heavy meal in the morning, no problem. A quick spread of mashed avocado on top of toast, seasoned with salt and pepper, can be a great option as you head out the door. And if you are not a fan of breakfast foods, it is ok to choose an item like a sandwich or leftovers in your fridge.

Recipe idea:

Ham, Cheese, Egg and Avocado Breakfast Burrito with Chipotle Crema

– Take the classic breakfast burrito up a notch with the addition of creamy avocados and a spicy chipotle sauce

– Omit ham to make vegetarian; swap for corn tortilla for gluten free option

2. Eat 5 fruits and vegetables each day.

Eating fruits and vegetables is an essential part of living healthfully. They are loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and are good sources of fiber. Assess where you are at in terms of fruit and vegetable intake on a given day. Which meal is it easiest to include a couple fruits and vegetables? Which meal is it the most challenging? Think of your routine meals and find ways to add an extra fruit and vegetable…or two. For example, add zucchini and bell peppers to your next casserole dish and garnish with avocado slices.

Recipe ideas:

Roasted Green Bean Medley with Avocado Vinaigrette

-Simple side dish packed with flavor; use the avocado vinaigrette for your next salad too

-Gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, vegan

Asparagus, Avocado and Roasted Tomato Salad

-Roasting the tomatoes really brings out their flavor in this dish

-Gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, vegan

3. Commit to savvy snacking.

There is absolute value to savvy snacking. By choosing nutritious foods—in controlled portions—in between your meals, you are making sure your body is fueled throughout the day. Snacks can even help prevent you from overeating at your next meal. Be sure to include at least one fruit or vegetable as part of your snack.

Dipping carrots and celery into guacamole is a delicious midday snack option. Don’t forget about Avocados From Mexico’s Guac Fiesta Sweeps! It’s a chance to win a $3,500 prize pack from us and Old El Paso. Click here for more information.

Recipe ideas:

Avocado, Ricotta, and Sundried Tomatoes

A delicious snack that is quick to assemble

-Vegetarian, can eat with gluten free toast

Easy Avocado and Grapefruit Salad

-This unique salad is a great combination of sweet and savory

-Vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, dairy free

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