Take a small step to a healthier you: Eat well

Whoever coined the phrase "You are what you eat" really hit the nail on the head. The food we consume plays a critical part in our health and wellbeing, and most of us understand the importance of a nutritious diet.

But even if you are really keen to eat better, actually managing to do it can be tricky. Busy lifestyles, lack of inspiration when it comes to cooking healthy food and long-ingrained bad habits can sabotage our good intentions.

The key to overcoming these obstacles and eating better is to be organised. Planning ahead and working out what you're going to eat means you're less likely to be tempted by unhealthy foods.

It's also important to remember that eating better doesn't have to mean radically overhauling your diet in one hit. Even just introducing small changes one at a time can make a difference.

Along with the people at AIA Insurance, who know how vital it is to eat well, we've got some ideas on empowering you to make healthier choices. With a little bit of forethought, they can help you be a better version of yourself.

GET ORGANISED AND EAT A BIT BETTER

PLAN YOUR MEALS

Spend some time going through cookbooks and healthy eating websites to find nutritious recipes for the week. Then make a list before you do your grocery shopping so you have all the ingredients ready to go when you need them.

EAT MORE HEALTHY FATS

Investigate how you can add healthy fats to your diet - monounsaturated and omega-3 fatty acids can help to protect against diseases like cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer's. Salmon, walnuts and olive oil are all great sources of good fats.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

When eating out, look at the menu online before going to the restaurant and decide on a healthy option. When you arrive, order without opening the menu so you're not tempted by other, less nutritious dishes.

COOK IN BULK

Preparing extra food not only saves time further down the track, but it means you have healthy meals ready to go on those nights when you're caught short. It also helps you avoid being tempted by unhealthy takeaways.

This article was created in collaboration with Woman's Day